Local hero completes 600 volunteering tasks to support South Londoners and NHS

A community champion from Croydon has completed more than 600 volunteering tasks to support people across South London and the NHS.

Irving Francis, from Coulsdon, has spent the last four years giving back to others through the NHS and Care Volunteer Responders programme.

The 72-year-old said: “Volunteering gave me a new purpose after retirement. I have found volunteering very rewarding and enjoyable, especially Stewarding.”

Mr Francis’ tasks have included helping older and vulnerable people with grocery and prescription collection, making friendly phone calls to those in need of a chat, and stewarding at his local COVID-19 vaccination sites.

He said: “I enjoy seeing how grateful people are when I help them. Something that might seem small to you can make a big difference to someone else. 

“My favourite part about volunteering is being able to do several different activities. It keeps things interesting and allows me to support my community in various ways.”

Mr Francis is one of more than 40,000 volunteers making a difference through NHS and Care Volunteer Responders. 

The programme is delivered by Royal Voluntary Service and GoodSAM, to support the NHS and healthcare teams across England. 

Sam Ward OBE, deputy chief executive of Royal Voluntary Service, said: “Completing 600 tasks is a highly impressive accomplishment, and we are incredibly proud and thankful for Irving’s efforts. 

“His hard work has undeniably made a positive impact in South London, supporting the NHS, healthcare teams, and those most vulnerable in his community.”

Volunteering with NHS and Care Volunteer Responders is flexible and managed through the GoodSAM smartphone app, allowing volunteers to work in their area, and remotely, at times and locations that suit them.

For more details on the volunteer activities available and how to sign up: nhscarevolunteerresponders.org

Pictured top: Irving Francis has dedicated the last four years to volunteering in his community (Picture: Royal Voluntary Service)