HAMPSHIRE County Council has expressed its thanks to those who have volunteered during the pandemic.

Cllr Andrew Joy has sent a message to all helpers in the area – and says the support should not stop now.

He is also encouraging people with spare time on their hands to get involved.

"In Hampshire volunteering has always played a crucial role but, during the Covid-19 pandemic, it has been particularly heartening and humbling to see this strong community spirit really flourish across the county," said Cllr Joy.

“Numerous groups and thousands of volunteers have given and continue to give generously of their time and energy, providing immense support to those in need, through caring and selfless acts of humanity. Whether collecting medicine for shielding residents, delivering food and household supplies, or checking in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours – every act of kindness and solidarity has made a marked difference.

“To all our volunteers across Hampshire, I would like to give our heartfelt thanks. You are the backbone of our communities and we all owe you a huge debt of gratitude for all you have done and continue to do during these challenging times, making an exceptional and positive difference to people’s lives across the county. Thank you.

“Looking ahead, while we may be making good strides in returning to a healthy ‘normal’, there are many in our communities who still rely on the help and support of the volunteers who stepped forward at the height of the pandemic to support the vulnerable. As we head into the autumn, and with the coronavirus still with us, we anticipate demand for support will start to grow again.

"Therefore, we need to say: To those who continue to volunteer – we thank you. Your support is invaluable, and please do stay with us.

"To those who may have recently stopped volunteering – we would like you to consider coming back, even if it is only for a couple of hours a week.

"To those who have never volunteered – now could be a great time to start.”

To find out more about volunteering opportunities visit Hampshire CVS website.

Tim Houghton, Chief Executive of Community First, on behalf of the Hampshire CVS Network said: "The generosity and willingness of Hampshire’s residents to help each other during the crisis has been simply amazing and on behalf of Hampshire’s CVS network we also say ‘thank you’.

"Local volunteer groups, charities and wider voluntary sector have never been more needed, and we now have a great opportunity to change for the better and maintain the commitment and enthusiasm shown by volunteers and a sense of local community belonging that makes lives better for all.

“Many charities and voluntary groups are still operating and are now busy reshaping and restarting services to prevent isolation, reduce loneliness and tackle the long-term mental health, social and economic consequences of the pandemic.

“If there’s a cause you care about, please reach out and offer whatever time and commitment you can – a little can go a long way.”