On 23 March, Hampshire County Council’s adult care services, in collaboration with the Hampshire Care Association, representing the county’s independent care sector, will be marking 12 months since the start of the pandemic by observing a minute’s silence at 12 noon.
Councillor Liz Fairhurst, Hampshire County Council’s Executive Member for Adult Social Care and Health, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has had a huge impact on all of us, but particularly on the health and care sector. Families have been separated from their loved ones and care has been delivered in the most difficult of circumstances.
“On 23 March, I will be joining colleagues and friends from our care services, along with many independent care homes across the county, in pausing to reflect on everything that has happened over the past year, to remember those we have loved and lost, celebrate their lives, and to thank everyone who has worked so hard to get us through this incredibly difficult period.”
She added: “While we remain, for the most part, separated from vulnerable relatives, the Day of Reflection also provides an opportunity for us to feel hopeful about the future. Anyone wishing to join us in taking a moment to reflect on this day is most welcome.”
Samir Patel, Chair of the Hampshire Care Association, said: “It is incredibly important for all of us in social care to have an opportunity to pause and reflect on the incredible challenges we have faced over the last 12 months. Our staff, residents and their friends and families have been through unprecedented times which will continue to affect them for years to come, and we know how important it is to give ourselves time and space for recovery. On the 23 March, we at Hampshire Care Association will be joining all of our members and colleagues across adult social care in a minute’s silence to commemorate those no longer with us and thank all those who have shown such dedication and commitment to caring for the most vulnerable in our society. Please do join us if you can.”
Following the minute’s silence at 12 noon, Hampshire County Council’s residential and nursing homes, along with many of the county’s independent care homes will be marking the day with a tea for residents, and a range of specially arranged activities, appropriate to each home.
In the summer, the Local Authority’s residential and nursing homes anticipate being able to invite family and friends to join them at a special rose planting celebration being held at each home .
