Covid-19 pandemic victims remembered days after inquiry hearings close
The annual day of reflection, six years after the coronavirus pandemic, is described as a moment of pause and remembrance.
Sunday marks the annual national day of reflection on Covid-19, which recognizes the work of frontline health and social care workers, volunteers and researchers who have played important roles during this period, as well as those who have died.
This year’s commemoration day comes after the final public hearings in the UK Covid-19 Inquiry, which officially launches in 2022, were held last week.
Bereaved families have vowed to continue fighting for justice in memory of their loved ones as the last witness is interviewed, and there are many more investigation reports to be published this year and next.
According to the latest data published by UK statistics agencies, at least 248,000 people in the UK have died due to Covid-19, which is cited as the cause of death.
Sunday’s events are expected to include meetings and commemorations in four countries across the UK.
These will include a brief wreath-laying ceremony at the National Covid Memorial Wall in London and a minute’s silence at midday.
In Wales, Caerphilly Borough Council will welcome people to the Ynys Hywel Covid Memorial Forest for an informal guided walk and a minute’s silence; In Northern Ireland, there will be live music, poetry and reflective speeches at Belfast City Hall.
Community and faith leaders, health professionals and local residents will gather in Manchester for a commemoration, storytelling and reflection organized by the Caribbean and African Health Network (CAHN).
A meeting was held at Sails Sculpture in Glasgow Green in Scotland on Saturday, where a minute’s silence was also observed.
Culture Minister Baroness Twycross said: “Every time I walk along the National Covid Memorial Wall I am struck by the 250,000 hand-painted hearts stretching for half a kilometre. It is a powerful tribute to loved ones who will not be forgotten.”
“The pandemic has affected everyone across the country. It has affected us all, and the impact of Covid is still ongoing.
“We now have the opportunity to come together as a nation to remember the quarter of a million lives lost. We also pay tribute to those on the front line during the pandemic, who are making enormous sacrifices every day to keep British people safe, whether in health and social care, education, policing, transport or other front-line services.
“I encourage everyone to celebrate this day in a way that suits them, whether by attending a community event or spending a quiet moment of reflection at home.”
Baroness Morgan, Chair of the UK Covid Commemoration Commission, said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has left a legacy of grief and loss for many across the country that is still carried forward today. “Everyone has lost something.
“This year’s Covid-19 day of reflection is an opportunity for all of us to pause and remember the lives lost to the pandemic, to recognize the efforts and sacrifices of frontline workers, as well as the spirit of volunteerism and community we have seen, and the contribution of the scientific community.”
