Support isolated people to self-refer for volunteer calls
People who would benefit from extra social contact can now self-refer for free ‘Check In and Chat’ phone calls from the NHS Volunteer Responders by calling 0808 196 3646. Alternatively, clinicians and other primary care colleagues can directly refer people with their consent. GP practices and pharmacies can also order pre-printed posters and flyers to promote self-referral.
The ‘Check In and Chat’ service involves volunteers phoning patients for a friendly chat. Where appropriate, they can encourage people to make positive changes and share information about other local services. People with additional vulnerabilities should be referred for Check In and Chat Plus to be linked with a DBS-checked volunteer.