How do I join the NHS coronavirus volunteer campaign?

The Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced on Tuesday the launch of a UK army of 250,000 volunteers in the fight against coronavirus.

The effort comes as another 87 people died of the virus, bringing the overall UK death toll to 422. There are now more than 8,000 confirmed cases.

Mr Hancock has said 35,000 extra NHS staff, including medical students and retired doctors, have already joined the national effort to combat the spread of the virus.

What is the NHS Volunteer campaign?

The NHS Volunteer campaign is a new initiative which looks to help the 1.5 million Britons with underlying medical conditions who have been asked to stay at home for the next 12 weeks.

What will an NHS Volunteer do?

NHS Volunteers will be carrying out “simple but vital” tasks, including driving patients to appointments, delivering medicines from pharmacies, bringing people from hospital, and making phone calls to check in on people isolating at home.

The NHS stresses “your safety is our priority”, and that most tasks can be done remotely.

Who can become an NHS Volunteer?

Anyone who is 18 or over, and fit and well with no symptoms of coronavirus, can become a volunteer. People who belong to high-risk groups, such as those who have underlying medical conditions, are pregnant, or over 70, will also be able to offer support via phone.

Patient transport drivers will require an enhanced DBS check before starting voluntary work.

How many NHS Volunteers are required?

Up to 250,000, which is the amount which the government and NHS are hoping to recruit.

How do I sign up?

You can sign up to become an NHS Volunteer Responder at goodsamapp.org/NHS.