STUDENTS from Paisley’s university are preparing for an overseas adventure that will see them help to improve the water supply to an Asian village.

The caring team, who are studying social work at the University of the West of Scotland’s Paisley campus, will travel to the village of Ban Had Kam, in Laos, on March 26.

Laos is one of the world’s poorest countries and UWS partner VoluntourLaos requested support to help supply the village with clean, safe water.

The three-week trip will form part of the students’ second year placement module.

Julie McCarthy, 21, who lives in Houston, is among those taking part in the mercy mission.

She said: “This is a great chance to experience another culture, way of life and belief system and incorporate this into my social work practice.

“It is also a great opportunity as it allows me to gain a first-hand perspective on other issues that countries face.”

The students will be living with villagers in basic facilities and have been studying the local language, customs and social conditions as part of their pre-placement work.

They have also been fundraising and collecting education equipment to use in Laos.

Social work lecturer Paul Harvey, who is co-ordinating the trip, said: “By undertaking this international placement we are facilitating our students’ experiential education as global citizens and making some practical, positive improvements to people’s lives.”