In the wake of natural disasters, like the tsunami of 2005, or emergencies such as in Iraq, emergency relief organisations see both a surge in people applying for overseas relief work and a shortage of candidates with the right qualifications. Such situations need people with specific technical skills and a track record of being able to cope with appalling conditions. Different relief organisations will have different areas of expertise and require different skills.

In the book, 'Getting into International Development'

• Learn about the kind of aid workers and skills needed at different stages of emergencies
• Read about how those without professional qualifications may find a route into emergency relief and the kind of NGO's that have opportunities for those less experience