Letter to Editor – Join us for the National Day of Reflection on March 23

Dear Editor,

Spring is symbolic of new beginnings. It is a time to begin healing from the emotional scars left by the pandemic.

For many, however, these scars run deep and have not begun to heal.

This is why we are asking you to take part in the National Day of Reflection on 23 March – two years since the first UK lockdown. It provides an opportunity for everyone to come together and remember those who have died and to support all those who have been bereaved.

The pandemic has increased the complexity of grief being felt. Families can now be with loved ones, free from restrictions to memorialise those who have died. For many of the people I’m supporting, this has unlocked a tidal wave of grief.

The National Day of Reflection is an opportunity for us all to remember and to support our bereaved friends, families, neighbours and colleagues. Giving them the space to open up and talk about the person that died is incredibly important. It shows we care and that what they are feeling is normal.

At 12 noon, the nation will come together in a minute’s silence. People can visit ‘Walls of Reflection’ across the UK, to commemorate loved ones by adding their name, photo or perhaps their favourite song lyric – whatever feels right.

With the news reminding us every day of the value of human life, it is vital to take the time to connect with each other, to show people who are grieving that they are not forgotten, that we are here for them and we remember the person they still love.

We hope you, your staff and readers will join us at midday on March 23 to reflect and then reach out to the people in their lives who are grieving.

Angharad Burden

Bereavement Coordinator

Marie Curie