Would you like get involved in helping to win the battle against COVID-19? There are important new opportunities to support your NHS and help to save lives as an NHS Volunteer Responder.  Details of the volunteer roles and a sign-up link are here. 

The national volunteer scheme was set up by the NHS in England in March this year. It is supported by Royal Voluntary Service and the GoodSAM app, and will continue until at least March 2021.

Over 360,00 volunteers were recruited in March but more are needed now. Many of the initial recruits have gone back to work or other commitments, requests for support have increased and more help will be needed during lockdown periods.

Previously registered volunteers are also encouraged to return to the scheme as the need for their services is rapidly increasing. If you have previously joined the scheme but have not recently been ‘on duty’, you can simply sign in again through the GoodSAM app or call 0808 196 3646 for advice. 

The scheme is operated through a smartphone app.

The volunteers help people who are vulnerable to the virus to stay well by staying at home. Typical volunteer tasks include collecting shopping, medicines and other important items, making regular friendly phone calls and giving lifts to medical appointments. You can also directly support the NHS by delivering equipment and supplies, providing patient transport, and directing patients at NHS sites. Further ways to support the NHS are due to be announced shortly.

The scheme is operated through a smartphone app which means you can set convenient times to go ‘on duty’. This makes it easy to fit around work, family or other volunteering commitments. 

Volunteer safety is central to the scheme and NHS Volunteer Responders do not come into direct contact with COVID-19 patients.  

Further information is on the NHS Volunteer Responders website.