Matt Williams of Marie Curie on remembering people who died during the Covid-19 pandemic

St Pauls cathedral viewed from across the River Thames — Photo by Andrei Ianovskii on Unsplash

Dear Barnet Post,

The new ITV drama, Breathtaking, which started this week and is set in a hospital on the frontline during the pandemic, will be triggering for many people who were bereaved during that time.

This period was a devastating time of loss where people’s normal traditions and death rituals couldn’t take place or were altered in some way. For a great many, this made their grief either delayed or more complicated and put millions at risk of needing formal grief counselling.

On Sunday 3rd March, Marie Curie will lead the nation in a UK-wide Day of Reflection to remember the people who died during the pandemic, from any cause, and to show support for those who were bereaved. It’s a day for healing and hope for the future.

We’re asking the public to observe a minute’s silence at midday and if anyone needs support with their grief, or someone to talk to, please contact Marie Curie’s Support Line for free on 0800 090 2309 or visit dayofreflection.org.uk

Matt Williams

Associate Director of Information and Support at the end of life charity, Marie Curie

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