Crossroads, the charity that supports carers, cannot thank their volunteers in the traditional ways because of the pandemic lockdown.

There can be no events for them to enjoy.

But the charity is still saying thanks to them during Volunteers’ Week.

Volunteers’ Week takes place betweenh June 1 and 7 every year.

Crossroads has around 90 volunteers who work with staff members.

The charity relies on its volunteers to help with the running of its three charity shops, to help raise money at fundraising events and support its adult and children’s services teams.

Each year, charities across the UK hold events to thank their volunteers and celebrate the power of volunteering.

Last year more than 600 events took place, from awards ceremonies to tea parties to barbecues.

For many charities the week is also a chance to showcase the range of volunteering opportunities on offer.

The charity would usually take time to celebrate their volunteers for the support and dedication they give, this year it is unable to hold any celebratory events to say thank you.

Crossroads’ chief executive officer, Jackie Betteridge, said: ’We are very disappointed that we can’t celebrate our wonderful volunteers as part of this years Volunteers’ Week.

’However, that doesn’t stop us being able to say thank you.

’Crossroads relies on its volunteers to ensure things run smoothly.

’Our shop team is made up of both staff and volunteers who help us make our shops a success, and we also rely on volunteers to help out at our fundraising events. I would like to thank all of our volunteers for giving up their time to support Crossroads; we simply couldn’t run things without them.’

Volunteering provides many benefits including having the chance to meet new people, gaining new skills, knowledge and experience and making a difference to the local community.

Although the charity cannot currently take on new volunteers, it hopes that it will be able to in the near future.

For information and updates on Crossroads services visit www.crossroadsiom.org