South Scotland MSP Emma Harper has paid tribute to volunteers who have helped the NHS and local communities in Dumfries & Galloway as Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June) kicks off.
The South Scotland MSP is also rolling up her sleeves this week to help volunteering as a Call Companion with Dumfries & Galloway Third Sector, who have been instrumental in co-ordinating the regional volunteering effort during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ms Harper, a registered nurse who also holds current PVG certification (Protecting Vulnerable Groups), had already volunteered with NHS Dumfries & Galloway but following attendance at an induction day was not needed due to the redeployment of staff which ensured the NHS was not overwhelmed.
Volunteers’ Week is an annual celebration of the contribution and work of millions of volunteers who give up their time to help others. Normally volunteers are celebrated nationally by MSPs who attend a special event hosted in the Scottish Parliament.
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.
Emma Harper, South Scotland MSP, said:
“Volunteers’ Week gives us a chance to celebrate the contributions of volunteers who have made such a huge difference to their local areas. I’m looking forward to taking up my Call Companion role with Dumfries & Galloway Third Sector which begins this week.
“When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the UK, I immediately offered my services as a registered nurse to NHS Dumfries & Galloway as it seemed the natural thing to do, given the concern over hospital staff capacity. I attended the induction day at DGRI but in the end I wasn’t needed due to the redeployment of staff which ensured the NHS wasn’t overwhelmed.”
“Many people in Dumfries & Galloway have taken on Covid-19 related volunteering roles to help communities deal with the many consequences of the coronavirus, and it’s more important than ever to show our appreciation for their hard work.
“I want to say massive thank you to all of the volunteers who have helped the NHS & their local communities during the Covid-19 pandemic and continue to do so.”
“Volunteers will be critical in our efforts to support and rebuild our communities, and I am sure I speak for everyone in Dumfries & Galloway 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.”
