I'm a referrer

NHS and Care Volunteer Responders (NHSCVR) is a large-scale, NHS-approved volunteering programme supporting healthcare teams across England.

To make a referral, call 0808 196 3382, Relay UK users 18001 0808 196 3646 or

Make a referral online

This free service is delivered by Royal Voluntary Service and GoodSAM on behalf of NHS England. Our volunteers work alongside healthcare professionals offering vital non-clinical support to help streamline operations and improve both staff and patient experiences.

Built on a digital platform, the programme connects a pool of available volunteers to live tasks and pre-scheduled shifts via the GoodSAM app.

The volunteer support available to you includes:

Driver Support (Pick Up and Deliver): Delivery of medication and equipment between NHS sites and to and from patients' homes.
Community Response: Assistance with essential shopping and prescription delivery.
Community Response (Connect - accompany to an activity): Supporting people to enjoy social activities within the community.
Telephone Support: Calls to people who may need a friendly voice and a listening ear.
Site Support: Stewarding at vaccination sites.
Site Support: Providing refreshments for ambulance crews at A&E bays.

Services may vary from area to area.

Please raise a separate referral for each type of support or task you require, even if the support is for the same person.

Here to help

Explore our Training Hub for training and resources including short videos on raising a referral and signing up as a referrer.
Speak to our Support Team at 0808 196 3382 for immediate assistance. Open 9am-6pm daily.
Speak with Your Regional Relationship Manager - For detailed discussions on volunteer support, arrange a call. See contact details.