Ahead of this year’s Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June), Martin Whitfield MSP has thanked the thousands of volunteers who contribute their time and skills to their community in East Lothian and across the South Scotland region.

Volunteers’ Week is an annual celebration of the contribution millions of people make across the UK through volunteering. It offers voluntary organisations, volunteers and decision-makers an opportunity to celebrate and thank those who give up their time to make a difference.

Commenting on Volunteers’ Week and his gratitude for the efforts of local volunteers, Martin Whitfield MSP said:

“Volunteers’ Week has always been an important opportunity to celebrate volunteers and volunteering and thank those who give up their time to help others. In 2020, nearly two-thirds of people in Scotland volunteered in some capacity, largely in response to the pandemic.

“This year, after two years of unprecedented new challenges for local communities, Scotland’s volunteers especially deserve our recognition and gratitude. Volunteers’ Week is a crucial opportunity to show our appreciation and say thanks for all they have been doing.

“Whether you are part of a voluntary organisation, benefit from the efforts of volunteers or a volunteer yourself, the week offers a range of opportunities to celebrate volunteers and volunteering. I want to take the opportunity to thank all of our amazing local volunteers and those at VCEL and other bodies who advise and support them.”

Further details about this year’s Volunteers’ Week can be found at https://volunteersweek.org/