Plan ahead if you want to take a gap year or career break but would prefer to stay in the UK. Then as soon as your time out begins you can make the most of every minute.

Why not live in a different part of the country, try a different vocation and meet new friends? Here are a few pointers...

• The School of Cookery has short courses in Shaftesbury. Join one to see if you would like to make money from cooking on your year out.
  
  
• Vitalise, a charity providing breaks for disabled people and carers, says it needs volunteers all year round. It provides food, accommodation, travel and insurance.
  
  
• CSV helps children with learning and physical disabilities. Volunteers can work four to twelve months. Food, accommodation and travel are paid for, and you receive a weekly allowance.
  
  
• PGL, the children's adventure holiday company, has opportunities for staff at its activity centres.
  
  
• Outdoor Solutions has various jobs and courses, if you want to get fit in the fresh air.
  
  
• Travel Industry Jobs has some live-in vacancies around the UK.
  
  
• Anywork Anywhere could help you find the right position in the right location.