COWDENBEATH MSP Annabelle Ewing has paid tribute to volunteers who have helped the NHS and local communities as Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June) got underway on Monday.

Volunteers’ Week is an annual celebration of the contribution and work of millions of volunteers who give up their time to help others and Ms Ewing said the recent happenings due to the Covid-19 crisis had seen tremendous stories.

During this pandemic, volunteers have signed up to help in record numbers through the Scotland Cares initiative – over 53,000 in one month – joining the thousands of people who were already helping, either with one of Scotland’s many voluntary and community sector groups or informally with neighbours.

Annabelle Ewing said: “Volunteers’ Week gives us a chance to celebrate the contributions of volunteers who have made such a huge difference to their local areas and that contribution is even more important this year than ever.

“Because of coronavirus, many important volunteering activities – like running charity shops, for example - have had to be put on hold, others will have been adapted to suit the new conditions and, of course, many of my constituents have taken on new volunteering roles.

“Vast numbers of volunteers are helping the NHS and our local communities to deal with the many consequences of the coronavirus, and it is important to take this opportunity to show our appreciation for their hard work.

“I want to say a massive thank you to all those volunteers.

“Looking forwards, there is no doubt that volunteers will continue to be critical in our efforts to support and rebuild our communities, and I am sure I speak for everyone in the Cowdenbeath constituency when I say we are all appreciative and grateful to those who are ensuring people across the country get the help and support they need."