UK-based overseas volunteering provider GVI has ceased trading and has called in liquidators.
The Exeter-based company launched nearly 30 years ago, as Global Vision International, offering nature conservation and community development programmes around the world.
All current and upcoming bookings have been cancelled and customers, suppliers and partners will shortly receive details on how to claim, according to a message on the company’s website.
The message, from CEO Andrew Valentine said: “For nearly three decades, GVI has been far more than just an organisation. It has been a global family with a shared vision, dedicated to making a sustainable difference in our world.
“It is with an incredibly heavy heart that I write to share that GVI is today closing its doors.
“Over the last 28 years, we successfully supported critical wildlife and marine conservation projects to safeguard endangered ecosystems, partnered with local communities through collaborative education and sustainable livelihood initiatives, and welcomed an incredible network of alumni who continue to advocate for our planet.
“I deeply regret the effect that GVI’s closure will have on staff, projects and customers, and we are committed to providing clear information to those affected as GVI goes through a formal liquidation process.”
Although agents didn’t sell GVI trips, they may be contacted by clients who want to cancel flights or change to a different destination, according to one agent posting on Travel Gossip’s Facebook group.
During COVID, the company made headlines when it did not refund more than 50 trips – some costing more than £7,000 – that had been cancelled. Customers who had paid for a flexible cancellation policy were refunded, while those who hadn’t were told they could rebook for another destination within four years. Many young people said they were unable to commit to taking time out at a later date.
