Council to mark National Day of Reflection

Stockport Council is supporting a National Day of Reflection one year on since lockdown measures were first introduced in memory of those who have died during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Organised by charity Marie Curie, the national day of remembrance will take place on Tuesday 23 March and will also show support for those who have lost loved ones in the past year.

The Council will commemorate the day by remembering people who have lost lives and support those who have been bereaved. To honour this day, Stockport will be lighting up the Town Hall blue and green and flying the flag at half-mast. Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery will be lit up by rainbow lights in memory of those who have lost their lives. A virtual multi-faith event will also be taking place on Monday 22 March and show videos of prayers and statements from various organisations and faiths reflecting on the past year as part of the National Day of Reflection.

The day will also reflect on positives that have been experienced during this time, and will celebrate community spirit shown in Stockport through the pandemic, as well as shining a light on the babies who were born on the first day of national lockdown.

Cllr Amanda Peers, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Neighbourhoods, said:

On the 23 March – National Day of Reflection – I wish to thank everyone for everything they have done over the past year, whether that means you have stayed at home, kept 2 metres apart, have been socialising virtually or helped to support our most vulnerable residents and communities. – we really have all been in this together in a huge amount of different ways! Many people have gone above and beyond to support each other and their communities through this very difficult time.

“The purpose of the day will be to reflect on our collective loss, support those who’ve been bereaved and hope for a brighter future. There will be plenty of support available if you are finding things difficult. I hope you will find some time to reflect on the last year in your own way, and here’s hoping for a much-improved year ahead”.

The Council is calling on colleagues and residents to take a minute to reflect at 12 noon in the planned silence organised by Marie Curie for who have died during the pandemic; and take a moment to connect with someone who has been bereaved.

Marie Curie is also inviting residents to light up their doorsteps – by standing outside with a light (a candle, a torch, even your phone) at 8pm on 23 March to remember someone who’s died and show support to people going through a bereavement.

The Council’s online memorial book also offers the opportunity to pay tribute to loved ones who have died from Covid-19.