Alliance MLA Kellie Armstrong has thanked all those helping support the community during the coronavirus pandemic, as Volunteers’ Week 2020 takes place.

The week is an annual celebration of the contribution of millions of people make through volunteering. Strangford MLA Ms Armstrong said it was more important than ever to recognise volunteers across the UK and beyond.

“This year more than any other I would like to thank all those who have helped support the community during this major health pandemic,” she said.

“People have shown a determined community spirit through helping collect items and delivering food parcels, collecting groceries, calling shielding and isolated neighbours, making scrubs for healthcare staff and to all who have voluntarily followed guidance by maintaining social distancing and ensuring the spread of this virus has been contained as much as possible.

“To all the community and voluntary sector organisations who have provided a lifeline for many, I have asked the Minister when the money to support your work will be released. Too many voluntary organisations have been left without an income at a time when they are doing more than double the community work they did before the coronavirus crisis.”