Calderdale Council is joining the nation in remembering everyone who died during the COVID-19 pandemic, on Marie Curie’s annual Day of Reflection(external link) on Sunday 3 March 2024.
The Council is encouraging local people to come together to remember and reflect by taking part in Sunday’s national minute’s silence at midday.
It is lighting up Wainhouse Tower in yellow on Sunday evening to commemorate those we have lost.
Cllr Tim Swift, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, said:
“The pandemic was an extremely difficult and devastating time, and for those who lost loved ones, its impacts will be felt forever.
“We are supporting Marie Curie’s national Day of Reflection to pay tribute to everyone who passed away during the pandemic, whatever the cause, and to show support for everyone who was bereaved.”
The Council is also reminding people of the support available for Calderdale residents with Long COVID.
Cllr Swift continues:
“Although most people with COVID-19 feel better within a few days or weeks of their first symptoms, for some people, symptoms can last for weeks or months after the infection has gone. This is known as Long COVID, which can have a real impact on their lives. We’re doing all we can to help these people on their road to recovery.”
As part of the Calderdale Cares Partnership, the Council and NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) have been working to improve the health and wellbeing of Calderdale residents with Long COVID since August 2021.
They have put support in place, shaped by people living with Long COVID. This includes physical activity sessions through the Long COVID: Recover Together Programme. The sessions involve gentle exercise at the person’s own pace, discussion of the condition and where to get support, and ways to manage symptoms. People can find out more and register their interest by emailing blt@calderdale.gov.uk or calling 01422 230230.
There is also a peer support group led by volunteers, bringing together people with shared experiences to support each other and feel understood. Anyone looking to join the WhatsApp or Facebook group, Zoom meetings, one-to-one phone calls and other activities, can email lcsgroupcalderdale@gmail.com.
A Long COVID research project is also due to take place, exploring the recovery experience of people living with Long COVID in Calderdale. This will increase understanding of treatment and the wider impacts on people’s lives, which the Council and its health and social care partners will use to develop further support.
The Council is also developing support for Calderdale businesses to help people with Long COVID to return to and remain in work.
If you are experiencing symptoms of Long COVID and would like details of the support available, visit: Coronavirus – guidance and patient information(external link).
Some people find it helpful to talk to others with Long COVID. If you would like to chat about it, please visit Long COVID Support Group Calderdale(external link).
For bereavement support, please visit www.mariecurie.org.uk(external link)