As the NHS turns 75, Royal Voluntary Service is calling 25,000 more people to step forward and support the health service now, and as we move towards next winter, by volunteering in hospitals and in the community.

Since the very beginning, Royal Voluntary Service volunteers have worked alongside the NHS, from the Second World War to the pandemic, and into the present. Seventy-five years on, the charity’s volunteers can be found in communities and at NHS sites across the UK.

Royal Voluntary Service also delivers the NHS and Care Volunteers Responders programme with GoodSAM on behalf of NHS England. This provides short-term support to people in need.

Newcomers to volunteering are welcome to apply for the many flexible opportunities available with volunteers needed to deliver shopping and prescriptions to vulnerable community members, make friendly phone calls and pick up and deliver medical supplies.

In addition, volunteers are needed at the charity’s shops, cafes, and trolley services to offer refreshments and companionship to patients, hospital staff, and visitors. They also offer lifts to hospital appointments, help out at dementia groups, and give practical and emotional support to more vulnerable patients following a hospital stay.

There are so many ways to get involved and support the NHS, volunteering with Royal Voluntary Service and Volunteer Responders allows volunteers to choose the role and style of volunteering that fits in with their life and lifestyle.

You can find out more at royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk.