Highland Council supports National Day of Reflection on 23 March 2021

Highland Council 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 – Highland Council is committed to supporting the National Day of Reflection, alongside a host of other organisations who are backing the day.

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 families, friends and colleagues who are grieving.

Locally, Highland Council will participate in a minute’s silence at 12 noon on Tuesday 23 March and the Ness Bridge, Inverness will be lit up in yellow on Tuesday evening in support of Marie Curie National Day of Reflection.

Marie Curie Chief Executive, Matthew Reed, said: “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 and other causes.”

Convener of The Highland Council, Councillor Bill Lobban said: “Highland Council is inviting colleagues, the public, staff, and local communities to take a minute to reflect at 12 noon on the National Day of Reflection on 23 March for those who have died during the pandemic; and take a moment to connect with someone who has been bereaved.”

To find out more about the National Day of Reflection and how to get involved visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/dayofreflection. #DayofReflection

Notes to editors:

About the National Day of Reflection - A day to reflect, grieve and remember – 23 March 2021

The National Day of Reflection on 23 March 2021 marks the first anniversary of the date that the first lockdown started. Over 3 million people have been bereaved since the first lockdown began. 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 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. The day is being led by Marie Curie and has been developed in partnership with other organisations who will get involved as part of a movement to support each other. For more information please go to www.mariecurie.org.uk/dayofreflection #DayOfReflection

For a supporting comment on the National Day of Reflection, please contact:  Marie Curie Press office on 0845 073 8699 media@mariecurie.org.uk.

ENDS