The European Solidarity Corps (formally known as European Voluntary Service) is a European Union initiative which creates opportunities for young people to volunteer or work in projects in their own country or abroad that benefit communities and people around Europe.

The European Solidarity Corps brings together young people and organisations to:

  • Build a more inclusive society
  • Support vulnerable people
  • Respond to societal and humanitarian challenges.

You have to be 18-30 years old to take part (you can apply when you’re 17).

European Solidarity Corps is a partnership between a sending organisation in the volunteer’s home country, a receiving organisation in the destination country, and the volunteer. Both organisations have to be approved (known as ‘accredited’) by the Erasmus+ National Agency in their country. Leargas is the Irish National Agency.

Thanks to Erasmus+ funding, we have been hosting European volunteers at Galway Community Circus since 2013. We have so far hosted ESC volunteers from Romania, France, Hungary, Spain, Palestine, Italy, Belgium, Germany, United Kingdom, Czechia, Serbia, Slovenia, and Turkey.

Every year we start recruiting for new European Solidarity Corps volunteers in the spring. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for when we kick off recruitment.

We recruit 3 assistant circus tutors and 1 arts administration assistant. The European Solidarity Corps programme at Galway Community Circus lasts 11 months, starting in September and finishing at the end of July.

If you have any questions about our programme or recruitment, please email esc@galwaycircus.com.

Galway Community Circus European Solidarity Corps Programme Booklet

2020 GCC ESC Documentary