NHS Volunteer Responders have been supporting tens of thousands of people across England during COVID-19, with tasks such as collecting shopping, delivering prescribed medicines and making ‘check in and chat’ calls.  

Restrictions may be easing but NHS Volunteer Responders are still here to help those who are self-isolating, including people with long term health conditions or who have been advised to shield at any point. Responders will be available to provide support until at least December 2020. 

If you or someone you know needs help with essential tasks, please call 0808 196 3646 (8am to 8pm). People with caring responsibilities and frontline health and care staff can also request support.  

When you call, please provide your contact details and your GP surgery. You’ll be asked some questions about what kind of support you’ll need. You’ll be then connected with a volunteer in your local area who will contact you to talk about exactly what you need. If you need help with your shopping, they’ll also discuss the options of how you can pay for your shopping, and how they can deliver it.

If you are a carer or a concerned family member, you’re able to make a referral for someone who needs extra support, as long as they agree to this. You can also make a referral for yourself, if it helps you continue in your caring role.

Health and care professionals, as well as a range of public and voluntary sector professionals, can continue to refer vulnerable people into the scheme. Referrals can be made online at www.goodsamapp.org/NHSreferral or by calling 0808 196 3382.