Help with shopping and more is available for those shielding at home due to a health condition – Call NHS Volunteer Responders 0808 196 3646 (8am to 8pm)
NHS Volunteer Responders has been set up to support the NHS and the care sector during the COVID-19 outbreak. An “army” of hundreds of thousands of volunteers has stepped up to support vulnerable people in England who are at most risk from the virus. These volunteers are matched with members of their community who need support to stay well at home.
Please note, you should only get in touch with the NHS Volunteer Responders if you (or the person you are referring) fall into one of the following categories:
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- People aged 70 years and older with underlying health conditions
- If you are in the ‘extremely vulnerable’ to COVID 19 group and have been sent a letter asking you to shield from the virus
- People who are pregnant
- If you are newly socially vulnerable as a result of COVID 19
- People who are registered disabled
- Others with high-risk conditions could include:
- People with chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma
- People with serious heart conditions
- People who are immunocompromised including because of cancer treatment
- People of any age with severe obesity e.g. body mass index (BMI) over 40
- Certain underlying medical conditions, particularly if not well controlled, such as those with diabetes, dementia, renal failure, or liver disease might also be at risk
If you meet any of these criteria and need help collecting shopping, medication or other essential supplies or just want a telephone ‘check in and chat’ to help prevent loneliness, call the helpline number at the top. The NHS Volunteer Responders are ready to help. More information and FAQs here.
I’m a carer – can I make a referral on someone else’s behalf?
As someone with caring responsibilities, you are able to make a referral for someone that you care for that meets the above criteria. You can also make a referral for yourself, if this support helps you to continue in your caring role. Call the helpline number above.
If you are interested in volunteering to be an NHS Volunteer Responder then more information can be found here.
Other help is available on different pages on this website. Click below to find out more: –
