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This briefing outlines the consultation that was carried out by the Department of Health aimed at improving volunteer support and opportunities in the NHS, social care and third sector within England. The consultation document proposes a long-term strategy to support volunteering in health and social care, intended to articulate the key actions needed to address the perceived obstacles to making a refreshed vision for volunteering in health and social care a reality. The consultation ran until 30 September 2008, with the Department of Health setting out a final strategy and implementation plan early in 2009.

This consultation presents the opportunity for the nursing profession to actively engage and participate in an open debate on the role of volunteering. One of the key principles likely to be stated by the RCN is that volunteers play a key role in complementing care in this sector rather than duplicating or replacing essential paid staff capacity and skill.

For further information, please email papa.ukintl.dept@rcn.org.uk