Avery Healthcare Commemorates National Reflection Day

March 23rd marked National Reflection Day, a commemoration for those that had passed away due to the Covid-19 pandemic, made poignant by the date marking the first anniversary of when the UK entered national lockdown in March 2020. The nation was encouraged to reflect and share their support for those who have been bereaved during this challenging time, which has impacted all of our lives. Devised by charity Marie Curie, the National Day of Reflection was also backed by celebrities, politicians, and organisations across the country.

At Avery, we wanted to show our appreciation by encouraging our staff and residents to come together to reflect on the year, demonstrating solidarity with people who have lost loved ones. And with the help of the Well-being and Activities teams, residents at the homes were able to utilise the National Day of Reflection toolkits: including greeting card templates, logos to print, and colouring pages, to commemorate.

Throughout the day, homes across Avery participated in remembrance activities, including staff and residents at Merlin Court Care Home. They held a minute’s silence at noon and crafted their own beautiful flowers that they have now proudly displayed in their coffee shop. Residents at Dukes Court Care Home marked the day with a minute’s silence and a candle vigil, led by a resident who reflected on the challenges the home has faced whilst remembering those who have sadly lost their lives this past year. And at Newcross Care Home, where residents decorated yellow heart cards with messages of hope, such as, “Keep Smiling”, and “We Shall Overcome This.”