About Us

GapAid, a very new charitable venture will address some of the issues related to the fast-growing gap year experience which is becoming a rite of passage for so many young people.

It is estimated that nearly 250,000 young people will undertake Gap trips this year, of which around 30% will experience some sort of problem or incident which requires help. Although the vast majority of problems are resolved locally, often with Foreign Office or family support, an increasing number of issues are serious and require professional help.
The increasing levels of adventure and travel are leading to a diverse range of challenges including medical emergencies, legal issues and personal attacks which include robbery, rape and assault. These incidents can be extremely serious needing rapid aid and advice often not locally available and which can be very difficult and traumatic to organize remotely.

GapAid will also seek to set up a helpline for Gap travellers and their families in order to liaise with the appropriate agencies thereby minimising the upset and trauma of coping with problems as they arise.

GapAid is also investigating a range of technology solutions to help solve problems encountered while gapping.

GapAid is in discussion with a range of related stakeholders including the Foreign Office, IT companies, the insurance and travel Industries and student bodies. The information provided will be properly researched, and will avoid any commercial or political interference, in order to give impartial and honest advice based on available information.

The immediate and overriding objective is to raise sufficient funds to create the infrastructure of the Charity, set up the website and employ the researchers and staff to ensure accurate and useful information is provided so that GapAid becomes a key influencer and resource for gappers and their families.

The need for this service is immediate and GapAid urgently needs your help.

Letter from Ian & Pat French