he NHS Volunteer Responders scheme launched last year as part of the government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Under the scheme, volunteers support people who are self-isolating or those who are cautious about going out for essential items.

It is set to continue until at least March.

What do the volunteers do?

The volunteers can help with food shopping, collecting prescriptions and talking on the phone to help prevent loneliness.

Am I eligible for support?

The full eligibility criteria, as listed on the NHS Volunteer Responders scheme website, is as follows:

• you have been advised to shield

• you are vulnerable for another reason, such as pregnancy, mental health or are over the age of 70

• you have caring responsibilities

• you are self-isolating because you have tested positive for Covid-19; you have symptoms of the virus; or you have been in contact with someone who has.

• you have been told to self-isolate by the Test and Trace service

• you are self-isolating ahead of planned hospital care or following entry into the county

How do I get support from the scheme?

If you are eligible and would like support from the scheme, call 0808 196 3646 on any day of the week between 8am and 8pm.

Who can volunteer?

Anyone living in England can volunteer with the scheme as long as they are over the age of 18 and have a smartphone – this is because jobs are sent to volunteers via the GoodSAM app.

If you would like to become a volunteer, you have to register your interest online: https://www.goodsamapp.org/NHSvolunteerresponders

You can find more information about the NHS Volunteer Responders scheme here: https://nhsvolunteerresponders.org.uk/