Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron has said that this year’s Carers Week, which began today (Monday 8th June), has a special resonance due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Mr Cameron said: “Each year, during June, we mark Carers Week, which reminds us of the contribution so many people make by taking on unpaid caring roles to look after some of our most vulnerable citizens.

“This year, due to the pandemic, we have seen an extraordinary extension of that activity.

“It‘s been heartening that so many volunteers have stepped forward to help those who require support, many of them in the ‘shielded’ category, perhaps by shopping, keeping in touch by phone, or even just by taking out the bins.

“In some cases, they have taken the place of relatives or friends, who have themselves been unable to keep caring because of the restrictions caused by the pandemic.

“These simple acts of kindness and thoughtfulness can make a world of difference to people who have found themselves isolated, in need, and, perhaps, lonely.

“We owe a great debt of thanks to everyone who has helped and brought our communities together during this time of need, also not forgetting those who have been taking on caring responsibilities sometimes over many years.”