VOLUNTEERS across South Cumbria have been praised by health chiefs ahead of Thank You Day this weekend.

The national celebration takes place on Sunday 5 June – coinciding with Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June) – and recognises the hard work and generosity of people across many different sectors and in every part of the community.

Lancashire and South Cumbria Health and Care Partnership has this year chosen to shine a spotlight on the people who give their own time up to help those in need.

Maggie Asquith, Integrated Voluntary Services project lead for Lancashire and South Cumbria Health and Care Partnership, said: “The tremendous efforts of those who volunteer should always be recognised, and that’s why Thank You Day is the perfect chance to praise them for their efforts.

“Without the many, many people across the region who have volunteered in the health and care sector over the past 12 months, things like the COVID-19 vaccine rollout would not have been as successful as it has been.

“I would encourage anyone who can volunteer to do so, as your help is always greatly appreciated.”

The Health and Care Partnership recently paid tribute to some of the people who have volunteered throughout the global pandemic with an emotional video that saw local patients, staff, family and friends shine a light on inspirational stories of gratitude to those who cared for them.

Speaking as part of the #ThankYou campaign Lancashire and South Cumbria’s interim director of nursing, Jane Scattergood praised those that volunteered with the region’s vaccination programme.