Special NHS services of reflection mark one year since lockdown 

Staff at University Hospitals Dorset gathered today for special services of reflection and remembrance to mark the anniversary of the first Covid lockdown and to remember those who have died.

The simultaneous services at Christchurch Hospital, Poole Hospital and the Royal Bournemouth Hospital, included readings by members of staff and the observation of the national minute’s silence at 12noon.

Hospital staff then tied ribbons to trees to remember all the sacrifices during the pandemic and all our patients, including those who have sadly died. Ribbons were also dedicated to colleagues who have been shielding throughout the pandemic.

Debbie Fleming, chief executive of UHD, said: “Today colleagues across University Hospitals Dorset joined the national day of reflection on the anniversary of the first lockdown. This has been a very challenging year for us all. Over the past 12 months, across our hospitals, we have treated over 3,000 patients who have tested positive for Covid-19.

“Today is a chance for all of us to reflect on each of these patients – to remember all those who recovered, to think about those who are still suffering the long-term consequences of Covid, and to remember in our hearts all those who sadly died. We must never underestimate the impact that Covid has had on families across the country.

“We have all been impacted in one way or another by Covid-19, and I hope that this opportunity to pause and reflect will help us all in moving forwards.”

Colleagues paused at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital

Staff tie ribbons at Poole Hospital

Colleagues at Christchurch Hospital add their ribbons to the tree