NHS and Care Volunteer Responders is a free service available to people in England. Our friendly volunteers are there to help people in need of a bit of extra support.
If you are a healthcare professional you can refer online here. Or call our support team on 0808 196 3382
To make a referral for yourself or on behalf of someone someone you know call 0808 196 3646.
What help is available?
Check In and Chat
A phone call can make all the difference to how someone is feeling and can help improve overall wellbeing. Volunteers are available to provide a friendly voice and a listening ear. The service is available for up to 18 weeks and can be requested daily or weekly. There will be a different volunteer calling each time giving plenty of opportunity to have conversations with lots of different people.
Check In and Chat Plus
For someone that might benefit from the continuity of speaking to the same person, you can request calls from a Check In and Chat Plus volunteer daily or weekly for up to 6 weeks.
Community Response
For people that might find it difficult leaving the house, Community Response volunteers are available to help by collecting prescriptions and dropping essential shopping, delivering them straight to the door.
Who can request support?
This is an inclusive programme that is open to anyone, where there is a need. Our team are always happy to talk you through what support might be available. However, please note, this is not designed to be a treatment service and volunteers are not trained to support people with complex vulnerabilities.
How to request help for you or someone you know.
If you, or someone you know, or someone you care for would like support or have any questions about the Volunteer Responders programme, we're here to help. Our Support Team is on standby to book your volunteer support and address any queries you may have. Call 0808 196 3646 between 8am and 8pm, 7 days a week.
You will be asked to provide contact details, including the address and telephone number for the person being supported. You will also need to have their GP details available to ensure that we can give the right support. Note: If making a referral for someone else, please make sure that you have their permission.
Please note: we cannot come into your home.
We try, where possible, to offer support in other languages where there is an appropriate volunteer.