On the fifth anniversary of the Covid-19 pandemic, bereaved families and communities gathered in remembrance. Across the UK, numerous events were held in towns and cities, dedicated to commemorating those who lost their lives to the virus and to honour the front-line health and social care workers, volunteers, and researchers. On the same day, a minute’s silence was observed, followed by the casting of long-stemmed red carnations into the River Thames and a salute from the London Fire Brigade fireboat. 227,000 people in the UK had Covid-19 listed as a cause of death on their death certificate. Keir Starmer, the current Prime Minister stated, “As we mark five years since the Covid-19 pandemic, I understand that for many, there is enduring grief and loss that cannot be eased.” Large gatherings including NHS staff and the poet Michael Rosen took place, including a reading of a new poem by Rosen, who had Covid himself. Additionally, personal stories and testimonials were shared, illustrating the different, and often difficult, experiences of Covid.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/09/bereaved-come-together-to-mark-five-years-since-covid-19-pandemic-outbreak