Scottish Political Leaders support National Day of Reflection on 23 March 2022

Scottish political leaders are supporting the National Day of Reflection on Wednesday 23 March 2022, which marks the second anniversary of the UK's first lockdown.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, Scottish Labour Leader Anas Sarwar, Scottish Conservative Leader Douglas Ross, Scottish Liberal Democrats Leader, Alex Cole-Hamilton; and Scottish Greens Co-Leader; Lorna Slater, have pledged their support for the second National Day of Reflection, and will lead a minute's silence at 12 noon in the Scottish Parliament.

The National Day of Reflection is a day to connect and support the people who have been bereaved during the last two years - and to reflect on and remember the lives of those who have died.

Spearheaded by end of life charity Marie Curie, over 350 organisations are behind the day.

Prominent buildings and landmarks will also be lit up across Scotland, including the Kelpies, Ness Bridge and Emirates Arena.

Last year the first National Day of Reflection saw widespread support and connected the nation in grief in the first event of its kind.

First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, said:

"My condolences go to everyone who has lost a loved one as we mark two immensely difficult years since the first national lockdown.

"Every single person across the country has felt the impact of the COVID-19 virus; as a society collectively we grieve for everything we have lost to it. Even now, as we can be grateful for the far greater normality we are able to return to, it is vital we pause to recognise and process that grief.

"The National Day of Reflection provides an important opportunity for us all to come together, to support one another and remember those we have lost."

Marie Curie's Chief Executive, Matthew Reed, said:

"The last two years have reminded us of how much harder grief is when you are isolated from those you care about and those who support you. And while life may be beginning to return to normal for some of us there are many living with the deep trauma of losing a loved one.

"Grief doesn't have a lifespan, nor does it discriminate.  As a society, we need to find better ways of dealing with grief.  We hope that having a special day will bring comfort to millions of us who feel the pain of grief, regardless of time or circumstance.

"The National Day of Reflection last year showed that a national day was very much needed and profoundly resonated with people up and down the UK.  It is time to come together again to reflect on the lives of the people we've lost and support those who are grieving."

To take part, people are encouraged to visit mariecurie.org.uk/dayofreflection and join one or more activities on the day:
• Observe a minute's silence at midday, wearing a daffodil pin if you would like to
• Shine a light at 8pm, or display flowers in your window
• Visit a Wall of Reflection or remember a loved one in your own way
• Join one of seven online talks and panel discussions
New for 2022, an interactive online map will display a UK-wide network of Walls of Reflection where people can go to remember the loved ones they have lost and where the local community can come together to support those who are grieving.

To find out more about the National Day of Reflection visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/dayofreflection #DayofReflection

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The National Day of Reflection on 23 March 2022 is a day to connect, supporting the millions of people bereaved over the last two years and remembering the people we've lost. Join the minute's silence at midday and find out more ways you can get involved at mariecurie.org.uk/dayofreflection

Marie Curie's annual flagship fundraising appeal, the Great Daffodil Appeal is taking place throughout March. The money raised helps to support the charity's nurses, doctors, and hospice staff so they can continue working on the frontline giving expert care to people at the end of life, and their families. For more information on how to fundraise or donate, visit: mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil

About Marie Curie
Marie Curie is the UK's leading end of life charity. The charity provides essential nursing and hospice care for people with any terminal illness, a free support line and a wealth of information and support on all aspects of dying, death and bereavement. It is the largest charity funder of palliative and end of life care research in the UK. Marie Curie is committed to sharing its expertise to improve quality of care and ensuring that everyone has a good end of life experience. Marie Curie is calling for recognition and sustainable funding of end of life care and bereavement support.

Please note we are 'Marie Curie' (not 'Marie Curie Cancer Care')
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