A message for volunteers from Andrea McCubbin, CEO Buckinghamshire Mind:

This Volunteers’ Week, I am sending my heartfelt thanks to you, our valued volunteers of all ages, who have gone above and beyond to help us reach out and touch the lives of over 21,000 people during the last year. What a fabulous collective achievement. Throughout, you have shown your commitment, expertise and immense kindness in so many different ways and I know how grateful colleagues and services users are for your ongoing support.

During these difficult times our organisation has shown how adaptable we can be as we have worked together to re-imagine our services to provide support in different ways. Thank you for being instrumental in contributing to that thinking and for your flexibility as we went through the transformation within such a short period of time. Supporting people whose mental health is impacted by social isolation, balancing work/life responsibilities, financial insecurity, physical health concerns or difficult domestic situations really gets to the heart of the Covid-19 mental health response and makes a real difference.

I also know that, for some of you, volunteering might not be possible right now and we all look forward to welcoming you back when you are able to re-join us.

As a volunteer you are essential in helping to support people with mental health problems in our communities. It is no exaggeration to say we truly couldn’t do it without you. Thank you – you’re amazing.

With best wishes,

Andrea McCubbin
CEO, Buckinghamshire Mind