A day to reflect, grieve and remember
Actikem is supporting a national day to remember those who have died during the pandemic, and to show support for everyone who has been bereaved.
Spearheaded by end of life charity Marie Curie, and set to take place on Tuesday 23 March – the anniversary of the UK going into the first national lockdown – Actikem is committed to supporting the National Day of Reflection,alongside a host of organisations, MPs, and celebrities who are backing the day.
Marie Curie estimates that over three million people have been bereaved in the UK since the pandemic began, yet many have been unable to properly say goodbye to loved ones or grieve.
The National Day of Reflection on 23 March will give the nation and communities a moment to reflect, remember, grieve and celebrate everyone who has died and show support for our families, friends and colleagues who are bereaved during these challenging times – from Covid and other causes.
Behind the statistics and whatever the cause, every death has been devastating for their loved ones. Many of those bereaved have not been able to hold loved one’s hands as they were dying, properly say goodbye, comfort or even hug each other. They have been unable to mourn as they would in ‘normal’ times and will be more likely to struggle with the long-term effects of grief.
The staff at Actikem will be observing a minute’s silence at 12 Noon to remember those who have died in the pandemic and take a moment to connect with someone who has been bereaved.
There will also be a national doorstep vigil at 8pm, where people will help create a nationwide “beacon of remembrance” on their doorsteps by beaming phones, candles and torches into the night sky.
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. It is important that we all come together to reflect on our collective loss, celebrate the lives of the special people no longer here, support those who’ve been bereaved and look towards a much brighter future.”
To find out more about the National Day of Reflection and how to get involved visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/dayofreflection. #DayofReflection