NHS Volunteer Responders offers help to people in need of support or who are avoiding public places during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is run by the NHS in England, supported by Royal Voluntary Service and operates across England. Its aims are to supplement existing voluntary support within communities, help people to stay well, and reduce avoidable demand on NHS services.
Community Response Volunteer: volunteers to collect and deliver shopping, medication or other essential supplies.
Community Response Plus Volunteer: volunteers to collect and deliver shopping, medication or other essential supplies for patients with cognitive impairments and or significant vulnerabilities who are shielding.
Patient Transport Volunteer: Providing transport to patients who are medically fit to attend routine medical appointments.
NHS Transport Volunteer: volunteers to transport equipment, supplies and/or medication between NHS services and sites. It may also involve assisting pharmacies with medication delivery. This role can also help Local Resilience Networks with transportation and delivery of items such as food parcels.
Check In and Chat Volunteer: volunteers to provide telephone support to individuals who are at risk of loneliness.
Check In and Chat Plus Volunteer: this is a peer-support role, provided by responders who are shielding themselves. Regular telephone support and a ‘listening ear’ is offered to clients who are also shielding or experiencing challenges as a result of COVID-19
Visit Volunteering for more information