A nursing home in Sheffield took part in a National Day of Reflection on Wednesday 23 March. Staff and residents at Northfield nursing home observed a minute’s silence at 12pm, along with thousands of others across the country. The day marked two years since the first national lockdown was enforced due to COVID-19.

Led by end-of-life charity Marie Curie, the National Day of Reflection was observed to allow people to remember those who have lost their lives over the past two years, whether from COVID or another cause, and also to support the relatives who are grieving these losses.

Care homes have been particularly badly affected during the pandemic, as visits from family have been restricted and many homes experiencing breakouts of infections, leading to residents losing their lives.

At Northfield, the solemn minute’s silence was followed by the release of 60 biodegradable balloons from the home. A group of singers from the Sheffield Harmony Chorus then performed a specially-written song, “Care for our Carers”, for staff and residents – the lyrics of which pay tribute to the important works of the carers.

Northfield’s carers were also presented with hampers from the not-for-profit organisation Support Social Care Heroes (SSCH) to acknowledge and thank them for their work.

Nicola Richards, Director of Palms Row Health Care and Founder of SSCH, commented:

“It’s hard to overstate the pressure care homes have been under over the last two years. Our carers, residents and their families have faced it all with a level of unity and fortitude which makes me proud to work in the sector.

“It’s so important for us all to take this time to remember the loved ones we have lost and to support everyone who is still grieving.”

Alison Marshall, Deputy Housekeeper at Northfield Care Home in Sheffield, added:

“The last two years have been very hard and there have been sad times. I think today is important so we can recognise all the hard work throughout the pandemic and remember everyone that we lost to Covid.”

Anyone who wishes to donate to Support Social Care Heroes can do so by visiting: www.ssch.info