GapAid is a charity addressing some of the issues related to the fast-growing gap year experience that is becoming a rite of passage for so many young people.


What

We feel that, if people are better-prepared and aware of the potential dangers and how to deal with them, their travelling experience will not only be safer but, if something does go wrong, they will be more likely to know how to deal with it. This focus on planning includes ensuring that gappers have appropriate travel insurance, medical cover and financial awareness. We hope to provide access to support and advice in partnership with organisations and government agencies.

How

Our primary aim is to maintain a dynamic website that will become an independent information portal for anyone travelling abroad. This includes information on how to prepare adequately for a trip and the most relevant, up-to-date information on local issues in destination.

Why

The original idea was formed after Ian and Pat French suffered the loss of their youngest daughter, Georgia, who was travelling in Peru in March 2007. The trauma of losing their daughter, allied to the issues which became apparent as they dealt with the tragedy, was followed by a number of conversations with affected families and gappers who had also experienced problems while travelling.

How you can help

In order for us to establish and maintain our key objectives, we desperately need your support and donations, whether as individuals, businesses or other agencies, so that we will be able to achieve our goals.

Our immediate objectives are:-


- Building the technical and administration infrastructure
- Creating a useful website portal
- Setting up helplines to provide appropriate advice
- Building partnerships and gaining influence with government and other stakeholders in the gap travel industry