2020/03/26
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/coronavirus-boris-johnson-nhs-volunteers-sign-up-how-to-today-a9425916.html
Coronavirus: 405,000 people have signed up to be NHS volunteers, Boris Johnson says
'That is already, in one day, as many volunteers as the population of Coventry,' says the PM
Lizzy Buchan Political Correspondent @LizzyBuchan
11 minutes ago
Some 405,000 people have answered the government's call for volunteers to help the NHS cope with coronavirus, Boris Johnson has said.
Speaking at the daily Downing Street press conference, the prime minister revealed there had been extraordinary surge in offers of help in just 24 hours, smashing the original target of 250,000 volunteers.
Mr Johnson said: "When we launched the appeal last night, we hoped to get 250,000 volunteers over a few days.
"But I can tell you that in just 24 hours, 405,000 people have responded to the call."
The army of volunteers will be delivering supplies, driving patients home from hospital and making regular phone calls to check in with vulnerable people who are isolating at home.
Mr Johnson said: "They will be absolutely crucial in the fight against this virus. That is already, in one day, as many volunteers as the population of Coventry.
"And so to all of you, and to all the former NHS staff who are coming back now into the service, I say thank you on behalf of the entire country."
