Renfrewshire’s Provost thanks key workers and communities for their efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic

Renfrewshire’s Provost, Lorraine Cameron, has thanked the NHS, key workers and the Renfrewshire community for their efforts during the past year, as Renfrewshire takes part in a National Day of Reflection on Tuesday 23 March.

The National Day of Reflection, organised by Marie Curie to mark the anniversary of the first UK lockdown, allows the community to come together and reflect on collective loss, support those who’ve been bereaved and hope for a brighter future.

Renfrewshire residents are asked to take part in a minute’s silence at 12 noon, and to shine a light from their doorsteps at 8pm in a moment of reflection.

Prominent landmarks across Renfrewshire will also be lit to remember those who have lost their lives during the pandemic.

Provost Cameron said: “The past year has had an impact on all of us and I have been so proud of how our community has come together to support one another during this time. I have seen first-hand how community groups, local businesses and volunteers have worked together to deliver essential food and medicine, lift spirits, and help tackle loneliness and isolation. Thank you so much for all your efforts – we have been so grateful for your support.

“I’d like to extend a special thank you to all NHS staff, key workers and council staff across Renfrewshire for their unwavering dedication and energy that has gone in to keeping us all safe. Your efforts have been heroic, putting the needs of others before your own and I cannot thank you enough.”

Provost Cameron also plans to dedicate a permanent memorial in Hawkhead Cemetery to pay tribute to every life that has been lost during the pandemic, no matter the cause. The memorial, developed in partnership with Steven Cameron Funeral Directors and McPherson Memorials, will be in place from mid-April.

Provost Cameron said: “While we reflect on our collective loss today, I wanted to ensure Renfrewshire had a permanent memorial to pay tribute to those who have lost their lives.

“I know many of you will have been unable to say a final goodbye to those you loved, and many of you will be struggling with your grief. Every death in our community has been devastating.

“I know this does not ease the pain and loss felt by the community, but I hope this will be a place everyone can visit to remember their loved ones.”