Welcome back and thank you for your hard work in the field!
MSF relies so much on the work that field staff do. We also greatly appreciate the need for support upon your return and the difficulties that people can experience settling back into the UK.
When you return from your mission we will post you a ‘Welcome Back Pack’, which contains our contact information so that you can get in touch with us in your own time to arrange a debriefing. We also offer a health check-up - you can find details and recommendations in your ‘Welcome back pack’.
A debriefing is essentially an in-depth discussion with an HR Officer. This is an opportunity to talk confidentially about emotional or sensitive issues regarding your mission, as well as the factual and practical aspects. It is also an opportunity to discuss future plans and career development. Since MSF UK works with a pool management structure, the same HR officer will be supporting you throughout your career with us. Click here for our HR department details and contact information.
Your future plans might include the need for learning and development, MSF UK is committed to making sure employees are provided with the support necessary to develop their knowledge, skills and competencies. Please click here to see our learning and development page for more details.
Volunteer Link is a peer support service run by MSF volunteers. It offers returning volunteers the opportunity to talk about field experiences with a colleague who has previously worked overseas. Each returning volunteer receives a phone call from the Volunteer Link usually about 6-8 weeks after their return. There are occasions when some returning MSF workers require ongoing professional support. In this event there are therapists available. This is a confidential service external to the office, and all fees are paid by MSF UK.
Your ongoing relationship with MSF
Your link with MSF doesn’t end after your mission. Your experiences and contributions are highly valued and we encourage you to share them. If you would like to speak at events or write for us, please let us know.
After your first mission you can also join our Association and have your say in debates and decisions within the movement.
We regularly hold events and discussion evenings on current humanitarian issues.
The office also has a pub night every month, which provides the perfect opportunity to mingle with the office staff and other returned volunteers (details of this are in your Welcome Back Pack).