Johnson backs plan for day of national reflection

THE PRIME Minister and other political leaders have backed plans to hold a national day of reflection marking the anniversary of the first coronavirus lockdown.

The end of life charity Marie Curie is planning a day of reflection to remember those who have died for March 23 – exactly a year since the UK was first told to stay at home.

It will include a minute’s silence at noon followed by a bell toll, and people are being encouraged to stand on their doorsteps at 8pm with phones, candles and torches to signify a “beacon of remembrance”.

Prominent buildings and landmarks will also be lit up across the UK. More than 100 care organisations, charities, businesses, emergency services, public sector bodies and community groups support the idea.

The figures from the Office for National Statistics show 145,647 deaths had occurred in the UK by February 26 where Covid-19 was mentioned on the death certificate. Boris Johnson said he will observe the minute’s silence at noon privately, while the head of the NHS Sir Simon Stevens has also leant his support.

Mr Johnson said: “This has been an incredibly difficult year for our country. My thoughts are with all those who have lost loved ones, and who have not been able to pay tribute to them in the way they would have wanted.”

Sir Simon said: “Coming out of the toughest year in the health service’s entire history, we need to reflect on the pandemic’s deep toll, mourn those we’ve lost, and mark the service and sacrifice of staff throughout the NHS.”

The day will also see activities take place such as virtual assemblies and services.