Why become a volunteer at the Dispensaire Français?
The Dispensaire Français in London is a charity founded in 1842 that provides accessible medical care to the French-speaking community in the UK. More than 65 volunteers, including around thirty healthcare professionals, enable hundreds of patients each year to have a consultation in French for a fee of £10.
By becoming a volunteer, you join a recognised institution, honoured with the patronage of the Duchess of Edinburgh since 2022, continuing a tradition of Franco-British solidarity that spans more than 180 years.
🩺 Volunteer doctors: we need you
The Dispensaire Français is always looking for new volunteers to join its medical team, who are ready to give a few hours of their time to provide accessible consultations to the French-speaking community in the UK. Whether you are a GP, a specialist or an allied health professional, your expertise is invaluable to our patients.
Requirement: be registered with the relevant UK regulator (GMC, NMC, HCPC, etc.).
When you join us, you will:
- Practise in a supportive setting within a historic institution founded in 1842
- Help French-speaking patients who have limited access to care
- Join a committed multidisciplinary team
- Enjoy complete flexibility over your time slots
A flexible commitment
We understand that you have a busy schedule, which is why the Dispensaire adapts to your availability:
- Consultations from Monday to Friday
- Frequency to be agreed together: half a day a week, twice a month or even on an occasional basis
- A professional setting with a fully equipped consulting room
- An administrative team that handles appointments and follow-up
What the Dispensaire offers you
- The satisfaction of helping patients who have no access to care or who do not speak English
- An environment regulated by the CQC (Care Quality Commission), a mark of quality
- A rewarding experience on a human level
- Belonging to a community of committed French-speaking healthcare professionals
- Visibility within a wide network of healthcare professionals and active members of the French-speaking community
- Taking part in internal events to meet other volunteers and the trustees
Our organisation relies entirely on the generosity of our volunteers and the support of our patrons. Together, we continue the Dispensaire's mission : making healthcare accessible to all French speakers in the UK, whatever their means.
