The amount of NHS volunteer applications received in March/April surpassed 750,000 within a matter of weeks. Sadly, it proved to be a missed opportunity due to logistics and red tape within the NHS. While the pandemic will end, there is a growing need for NHS responders to continue to contribute on a volunteer basis. A national database accessible in the local communities could solve some of the growing issues such as an aging population, mental health crisis, loneliness, and NHS staff shortages. The database would be linked to a nationwide website and mobile app with maps of help available/sought links to NHS resources, other initiatives.
Additionally, accredited NHS training courses widely rolled out in the community addressing mental health first aid and befriending would be beneficial.
218-11