The Chair of the Lancashire Resilience Forum has praised the volunteers who give up their time and skills to help support safety measures in local communities.

This week (June 2nd-June 8th) is national Volunteers’ Week, an annual event which recognises the invaluable contributions and dedication of people who truly make a difference to the lives of many people and services in our local communities.

This year's campaign will be the 41st anniversary of the event which celebrates volunteers but also looks to inspire others to learn more about volunteering opportunities.

Steve Healey, Chair of the Forum, which brings together emergency responders, local authorities, government agencies, the health sector, utility and transport companies and the voluntary and community sector to help keep people in the county safe, said: “We are very fortunate in Lancashire to have so many volunteers who give up their time and their skills to help others, including some of the most vulnerable, people in our local areas.

“From Special Constables to British Red Cross and St John’s Ambulance workers through to Mountain Rescue group members and people at the heart of communities in Flood Action Groups, there are a host of volunteers out there working hard to keep others safe.

“Their support plays a crucial role in building stronger and more resilient communities across Lancashire and I would like to thank them on behalf of the Resilience Forum and encourage others to look for opportunities where they could offer their services in their own areas.”

Volunteers Week is organised by the UK Volunteering Forum, a partnership between NCVO (National Council for Voluntary Organisations), WCVA, Volunteer Scotland and Volunteer Now.

If you would like to know more about volunteering opportunities in the county, go to the Lancashire Volunteer Partnership website here