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 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.

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.

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We hold webinars to provide information about different services.

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