Take Time to Reflect on Challenging Year

Residents in South Tyneside are being encouraged to support a national day of reflection on the anniversary of the first UK lockdown.

Organised by Marie Curie, the day of reflection, on 23 March, encourages people to remember those who have lost their lives to Covid-19 and offer support to those bereaved while also hoping for a brighter future.  

The Deputy Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Gladys Hobson, is inviting people across the Borough to take part in a minute's silence at 12 noon. Residents are also encouraged to show their support by putting a colourful poster in a window or by shining a light at 8pm as a symbol of hope.

South Shields Town Hall will be lit up at 8pm in yellow - the colour of the Marie Curie charity.  

Councillor Hobson, said: "The past year has, without doubt, been one of the most challenging for our communities. It has been a year like no other, a year in which many of us will have been affected by Covid or know someone who has been affected.

"This day of reflection is important as it allows us to stand together, reflect on our collective loss but also look forward to a brighter future."

She added: "It is a time to also remember all those who were there for us in our darkest of days. It is important that we hold in our memory all the people who went above and beyond throughout this crisis. From our wonderful NHS staff to teachers, social care workers and our army of volunteers, to name but a few, those who really needed our support continued to receive it.

"Sadly we are not yet done with Covid but this day will focus our minds on the tremendous efforts everyone has made in the fight against the virus and remind us of the need to continue to follow the guidance.

"By continuing to work together as a community we will prevail."