Physiotherapy
Step into the world of physiotherapy and rehabilitation at PenMar Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Clinic, a pioneering Gambian-run facility dedicated to accessible healthcare for all. As a volunteer, you’ll work alongside experienced local therapists, assist in therapeutic treatments, and witness firsthand how specialized care transforms patients’ lives. Your contribution will strengthen the clinic’s mission — to provide effective, affordable therapy that restores movement, dignity, and hope.
Role
Physiotherapy Assistant
Partner Organisation
PenMar Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Clinic
Location
Kololi, The Gambia
Language
English (basic local phrases welcome)
Type of Travel
Study Visit / Voluntary Work / Group Expedition
Availability
Open year-round
Duration
Minimum 2 weeks; maximum duration is not limited.
Schedule
Mon–Fri, 08:00–16:00; typical volunteer shift 3–5 hours/day
About the Clinic
PenMar Clinic operates with a clear humanitarian mission — to help those in need and ensure that everyone, regardless of financial means, has access to quality rehabilitation.
In partnership with the PenMar Association (Switzerland), the clinic provides free intensive rehabilitation therapy, primarily for patients recovering from strokes or other conditions that impair movement.
All income from paid services and donations is reinvested into free treatments for low-income patients. In doing so, PenMar fulfills its purpose: giving back to the community, providing professional care, and restoring dignity and independence to those in recovery.
Why your help matters
Access to physiotherapy and rehabilitation in The Gambia is very limited. Most people cannot afford therapy or are unaware that physiotherapy can help restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve independence. PenMar Clinic is one of the few centers offering such care — and it relies heavily on volunteer support.
Your involvement helps to:
• increase access to therapy for people living in poverty or remote villages,
• encourage knowledge exchange between volunteers and local staff, strengthening long-term capacity,
• provide individual attention to patients who would otherwise go without care,
• raise community awareness about movement, prevention, and healthy lifestyles.
Volunteers bring not only skills but also compassion, empathy, and encouragement — restoring patients’ confidence and reminding them they are not alone.
Role overview (what you’ll do) — under staff supervision
As a volunteer, you’ll work under the supervision of professional Gambian physiotherapists at PenMar Clinic, a small private facility treating neurological and orthopedic patients of all ages. Most patients come with lower back pain, post-surgical conditions, stroke, cerebral palsy, muscle weakness, or movement disorders.
You will:
• assist therapists in conducting rehabilitation sessions,
• help assess mobility and document patient progress,
• support patients during exercises and manual therapy,
• accompany therapists during home visits or outreach trips to nearby villages,
• participate in community awareness activities about movement and recovery,
• contribute ideas for creative use of limited materials and space.
Sessions usually last 45–60 minutes, and volunteers typically work with two to three patients per day. Therapy often includes movement, balance, and manual techniques — requiring direct, hands-on engagement.
You’ll sometimes need to show cultural sensitivity (for instance, women usually treat women, men treat men) and adaptability due to limited equipment. The experience offers both professional growth and deep human connection.
Who we’re looking for
This program is suitable for:
• students or graduates of physiotherapy, rehabilitation, or nursing,
• anyone interested in healthcare, movement, or recovery after injury,
• individuals who are empathetic, responsible, patient, and adaptable.
You should be comfortable working directly with people and communicating in English. Previous professional experience is helpful but not required. More important are motivation, willingness to learn, and an open mind. Creativity is also valuable, as you may need to adapt therapy methods using available materials.
Volunteer Recommendations for Future Volunteers:
- Approach your work with empathy and patience — progress takes time.
- Be creative and flexible when working with limited equipment.
- Show respect toward patients and staff — mutual trust is key.
- Learn a few local phrases; it builds instant connection.
- Reflect daily — every story you hear will change the way you see care.
Training & supervision
On arrival, a volunteer coordinator or senior volunteer will take you to the clinic, introduce you to your mentor, and help you get oriented. You’ll meet the team, observe sessions, and learn how the clinic operates.
During the first few days, you’ll shadow experienced physiotherapists. As you gain confidence, you’ll gradually assist and then lead short sessions under supervision. The atmosphere is warm and supportive — every volunteer is encouraged to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully.
At the end of your stay, you’ll have a brief reflection meeting and can receive a volunteer certificate upon request.
How to prepare
Before arrival, make sure you’re ready for your placement:
• Documents: Read the volunteer handbook and attend the online orientation if possible.
• Knowledge: Basic English and familiarity with human anatomy, physiotherapy principles, or patient care are helpful but not mandatory.
• Mindset: Be open to working with limited resources and adapting to a new cultural environment.
• Packing list: Comfortable clothing, closed shoes, personal hygiene items, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and any small therapy tools you may wish to donate.
Program Goals
The main goal is to provide access to quality rehabilitation for people who cannot afford it. The project connects volunteers from around the world, combining professional expertise and humanity to help patients regain movement, independence, and dignity.
Beyond direct patient care, the program also aims to:
• build local healthcare capacity through knowledge exchange,
• raise awareness about physiotherapy, ergonomics, and prevention,
• promote a culture of rehabilitation and wellness within the community.
Wish list
Volunteers are encouraged to help raise donations — even small contributions make a big difference. Typically, volunteers collect around €250, which supports:
• purchase of basic therapy materials (elastic bands, balls, braces, balance aids, etc.),
• maintenance and upgrading of therapy equipment,
• funding free treatments for low-income patients.
Every contribution keeps therapy accessible and helps more Gambians begin their journey to recovery.
How it works?
Click HERE to learn everything you need to know—in one place—about how volunteering with us works and how to prepare.
Stories of Our Volunteers
Zala Košir
This can’t be started differently than to say that the experience was amazing, and it truly warmed my heart. If you are thinking of going to The Gambia as a volunteer, don’t wait any longer – just go for it. You won’t regret it. I know I should start at the beginning, so I’ll go back now.