People who have given their time freely to help individuals, families and communities affected by COVID-19 are being recognised as part of this year's National Volunteers' Week.

National Volunteers' Week is an annual event that celebrates the huge contribution made by millions of people make across the UK through volunteering.

This year's National Volunteers' Week takes on a special significance because of the volunteer effort that has been mobilised in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Around 200 volunteers have come forward in Rutland to support those affected by COVID-19. This includes volunteers who have been working with Parish Councils or good neighbour schemes to collect shopping and medicines for people who are self-isolating or being shielded because of the virus.

Volunteers have also been involved in providing friendly phone call services to help people who may feel isolated or lonely, as well as collecting almost a tonne of donations for the Rutland Foodbank over the past month.

Coun Alan Walters, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health at Rutland County Council, said: "COVID-19 has taken a terrible toll across the country. It has also brought out the very best in our communities and highlighted the incredible lengths that people will go to help and support one another. The response to COVID-19 here in Rutland has been nothing short of amazing. Local food delivery and medicine collection schemes could not have worked without the time and energy of dedicated volunteers, working with the Council, Parishes and good neighbour groups. Thank you to everyone who has come forward to volunteer their help and support."

Rutland Community Wellbeing Service is continuing to build up a network of volunteers to join voluntary and community sector partners in supporting Rutland. If you would like to find out more or register as volunteer please visit: www.rutlandwellbeing.org.uk/covid.

National Volunteers' Week 2020 is taking place between 1 and 7 June. For more information visit: volunteersweek.org.