Published 2 June 2020
Amongst the many things the Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted is the critical role volunteers play in their local communities.
It's Volunteers' Week this week (I - 7 June) so there's no better time to not only recognise the work they are doing to support people through this period but also their invaluable contributions to our society at all other times.
And the Mayor of High Peak and Leader of the Borough Council are taking this opportunity to say a huge thank you to everyone who selflessly gives their time to help others.
Mayor Councillor Ed Kelly said: "The Coronavirus situation has affected all of us in some way but, for me, one of the biggest positives to come out of it is how so many people have responded to the crisis and their willingness to help others in difficult times.
"We all value the people working in the NHS, care staff and the key workers who have kept essential services going during this unprecedented period and it is right that we offer our gratitude to them.
"But I also want to shine a spotlight on the people who are often overlooked but who we could not cope without. The countless acts of kindness and neighbourly spirit together with the bravery and resilience of people across the High Peak has been simply inspiring and I want to say a sincere thank you to all of you for all you have done and continue to do."
Council Leader, Councillor Anthony Mckeown, added his own tribute: "Volunteers' Week is an annual event to highlight the enormous impact our volunteers make day in, day out.
"This year, with the impact of Covid-19, we have even more volunteers to thank with individuals and groups doing everything from checking on their neighbours and making sure the most vulnerable have the food and medicines they need, to being a much-welcomed, friendly voice on the telephone. Our care and support for each other has been truly humbling.
"Together with the Mayor, I want to say an enormous thank you to those heroes across the High Peak who give up their time to help others. You are the lifeblood of our Borough and we genuinely appreciate all you do - it does not go unrecognised."
