Public asked to help shape UK’s Covid-19 commemoration plans

Today, the UK Commission on Covid Commemoration has launched a consultation giving people across the UK the opportunity to say how they think the pandemic should be remembered and with possible suggestions including the adoption of a Remembrance Sunday-style symbol, dedicated memorials and reflective spaces.

The Commission is also seeking suggestions on suitable dates to hold a national day of remembrance and views on how future generations should be educated about the sacrifices made throughout the pandemic, as well as marking key achievements such as the development of the vaccines and the valuable contribution made by volunteers.

The Chair of the UK Commission on Covid Commemoration, Nicky Morgan, said:

The pandemic had a profound impact on all our lives and will be remembered in our history forever.

Through this consultation, we want to hear from as many people as possible about how we should remember those who lost their lives and those who cared for those in need as well as those who kept our essential services running or stepped up in other ways such as taking on volunteering responsibilities.

We know there are some incredible initiatives already happening across the UK and we want to build on this great work and consider further ways to commemorate and mark this period in our history.

The public consultation will close on Monday, 5 December 2022.

As part of its engagement programme, the Commission has already met a number of interested parties to seek their views with further regional events planned across the UK. These events provide an opportunity for bereaved families and local stakeholders to offer suggestions for how to commemorate those who died, as well as discuss how the pandemic should be marked more generally.

The Commission will report its recommendations to the Prime Minister by the end of March 2023.

To take part in the consultation visit Covid Commemoration Consultation