Join us in a National Day of Reflection on 23 March
We are supporting a national day to remember those who have died during the pandemic, and to show support for everyone who has been bereaved.
The ‘National Day of Reflection’ is led by end of life charity Marie Curie and takes place on Tuesday 23 March – the anniversary of the UK going into the first national lockdown.
Marie Curie estimates that over three million people have been bereaved since the pandemic began, yet many have been unable to properly say goodbye to loved ones or grieve.
The ‘National Day of Reflection’ will give the nation and communities a moment to remember, grieve and celebrate everyone who has died during this time and show support for our families, friends and colleagues who are grieving.
What we are doing at Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust
We are planning to honour all those who have died during the pandemic, remembering our colleagues, family, and friends and those who have been bereaved during the pandemic.
A minute silence will be held at 12pm on 23 March and there will be a memorial book 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.”
More about the National Day of Reflection
Marie Curie warns that without the right support for people who have been bereaved, the devastation that the pandemic has caused will impact the lives of people for generations.
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 23 March 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