People across Gloucestershire have today been marking the one year anniversary of the first national lockdown.
A national day of reflection has been organised by end-of-life charity Marie Curie which estimates more than six million people in the UK have been bereaved since the coronavirus pandemic began.
Gloucestershire police chief constable Rod Hansen led a minute’s silence at 12pm, with the flag at the police headquarters Quedgeley being flown at half-mast in memory of those who have passed away.
1/4: Today is the anniversary of the first lockdown and this is being marked by Stroud District Council.
— Stroud District Council (@StroudDC) March 23, 2021
Flags are flying at half mast outside Ebley Mill, and on this #nationaldayofreflection, a minute’s silence is being observed at noon. pic.twitter.com/P9jduKcdjp
Stroud MP Siobhan Baillie posted on Facebook: "Today has been a great opportunity for us all to reflect over the events of the last year, remembering all of those who have been lost, and recognising the incredible work everyone has put in over the last 12 months to fight the Covid 19 pandemic."
People are also being encouraged to stand on their doorsteps at 8pm with phones, candles or torches to signify a 'beacon of remembrance'.
Earlier Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “The last 12 months has taken a huge toll on us all, and I offer my sincere condolences to those who have lost loved ones.
“Today, the anniversary of the first lockdown, is an opportunity to reflect on the past year – one of the most difficult in our country’s history.
“We should also remember the great spirit shown by our nation over this past year. We have all played our part, whether it’s working on the front line as a nurse or carer, working on vaccine development and supply, helping to get that jab into arms, home schooling your children, or just by staying at home to prevent the spread of the virus.
“It’s because of every person in this country that lives have been saved, our NHS was protected, and we have started on our cautious road to easing restrictions once and for all.”
Today, on this #NationalDayOfReflection we will come together to reflect on our collective loss, support those who’ve been bereaved, and hope for a brighter future. Join us for a minute of silence at 12 noon. Find out more here https://t.co/HrbRj9fklw #lockdownanniversary pic.twitter.com/a37dmnbseC
— NHS Glos CCG (@GlosCCG) March 23, 2021
If you’re struggling with coming to terms with the loss of a loved one, help is available:
Marie Curie: mariecurie.org.uk/help/support/bereavement
Gloucestershire Hospitals bereavement support: gloshospitals.nhs.uk/.../service.../bereavement
Cruse Bereavement Care: cruse.org.uk/.../west-midlands/gloucestershire
Winston’s Wish: winstonswish.org/coronavirus
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