Since the first lockdown began in 2020, hundreds of thousands of people have died. Too many lives have been cut short and millions have been bereaved. Behind the statistics and whatever the cause, every death has been devastating for the people left behind.

Join us on 23 March, the first anniversary of the first UK lockdown, for a National Day of Reflection to reflect on our collective loss, support those who’ve been bereaved, and hope for a brighter future.

There are still tough times ahead, as the death toll continues to rise. This annual day will give us all time to pause and think about this unprecedented loss we’re facing, and support each other through grief in the years to come.

We invite you to take some time and space to think about the last year, reflect on you or your loved ones’ loss and remember those who’ve lost their lives. Join the national minute of silence at 12 noon for this moment of reflection. Together, we’ll honour loved ones who have died and reflect on the challenges we have overcome.

At 8pm there will be a minute’s silence and come together to light up the night. Stand outside with a light – a candle, a torch, even your phone – to remember someone who’s died and show your support to people going through a bereavement. Alternatively you can shine a light in your window for everyone to see.

In Leeds, civic buildings will be lit up in yellow, and there are lots of events taking place around the city.

Leeds Bereavement Forum

Our March virtual Death Cafe will take place on National Day of Reflection, the first anniversary of the first UK lockdown, to reflect on our collective loss, support those who’ve been bereaved, and hope for a brighter future. At a Death Café people, often strangers, gather to eat cake, drink tea and discuss death. Death Cafés are an international movement dedicated to encouraging discussion about death and dying in a relaxed environment – a welcome opportunity to ask those awkward questions you always wanted to ask. http://lbforum.org.uk/news-and-events/leeds-bereavement-forums-national-day-of-reflection-death-cafe/

Tuesday 23 March | Virtual Death Cafe via Zoom | 11am-12.15pm. Please email jane.robinson@lbforum.org.uk for the Zoom link and password.

The Swan Song Project

The Swan Song Project is also doing an event that day – National Day of Reflection from The Swan Song Project – On Tuesday 23 March (time TBC) The Swan Song Project is hosting a Music and Memories group in support of the National Day of Reflection. The group will be a space for people to listen to special songs linked to bereavement. The songs may hold special memories, be a favourite of a loved one or have helped you through the grieving process.

If you would like to attend and/or request a song please email Ben@swansongproject.co.uk.

Full Circle Funerals

At midday on Tuesday 23 March many communities will share one minute of silence to acknowledge the lives of people who have died during the pandemic. Full Circle Funerals’ staff  will be standing outside their service to take part and would like to welcome people to join them. Visit Full Circle Funerals to see their locations in Guiseley, Bramley, Harrogate and Halifax.

Further details on what’s happening nationally can be found at National Day of Reflection | Marie Curie

Share what you do on social media using #DayOfReflection.