TODAY across Coventry and the rest of the UK a national day of reflection will be held, marking the first anniversary of the country going into lockdown due to the Covid pandemic.
People are being urged to hold a minute’s silence at midday and at 8pm, stand on their doorsteps holding candles, lights or using their mobile phone torches to create a nationwide ‘beacon of hope’.
It is hoped the nation will come together to reflect on our collective loss, support those who’ve been bereaved, and hope for a brighter future.
The day is being led by the Marie Curie charity.
The Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust will be among the organisations honouring all those who have died during the pandemic, remembering our colleagues, family, and friends and those who have been bereaved during the pandemic.
As well as the silence, there will be memorial books at a number of our sites, which will hold the names of people who have died throughout the last year and our colleagues will be able to leave their messages of remembrance.
In addition, our chaplaincy team continues to offer for support, providing Chaplaincy and Spiritual support for all.
Simon Moult, CWPT’s Chaplain, said: “The National Day of Reflection is an opportunity for everyone to pay our respects to those who have died throughout the pandemic and for those who are grieving the death of a loved one.
“It is so important that we reach out and not only give families the opportunity for their relatives name to be remembered but to also show that we have not forgotten the sacrifices that families and key workers have made through very difficult times. It is a chance for us all to come together as one.”
Mel Coombes, Chief Executive at CWPT, said: “There has been so much loss and suffering over the past year.
“We want in this National Day of Reflection to commemorate everyone who has passed away or been severely affected through the pandemic, and to express our deepest sympathy to their families and friends.
“At the same time, we want to mark our appreciation for everyone who has helped us through the past year, be they key workers, carers, charities, partners or individuals.”
Marie Curie Chief Executive Matthew Reed said: “We need to mark the huge amount of loss we’ve seen this year and show support for everyone who has been bereaved in the most challenging of circumstances. We cannot simply stand by and not recognise the effects the pandemic has had on the bereaved. We know people are in shock, confused, upset, angry and unable to process what has happened.
“The National Day of Reflection on March 23 gives us a moment to reflect, remember and celebrate the lives of everyone that has died, as well as show our support to family, friends and colleagues who are bereaved during these challenging times – from Covid-19 and other causes.”
To find out more about the National Day of Reflection and how to get involved visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/dayofreflection. #DayofReflection
