A CAMPAIGN has been launched by the care sector to remember those who have tragically lost their lives during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the UK moves slowly out of lockdown the #StarsInMemory campaign invites everyone who has experienced loss or bereavement in their lives to connect on 30 June 2020, by making a star and placing it in their window or post on social media under the hashtag #StarsInMemory.

Stars can be any size, made in any material and decorated according to individual preference.

A statement from the National Care Forum, which launched the campaign, said: “The COVID 19 pandemic has produced widespread personal loss and tragedy, with the Care sector often located at the centre of this.  

Enduring memories

“Each person who has died during the pandemic leaves enduring memories amongst their loved ones and those that they have touched in their lives. However, despite the daily statistics, the personal losses remain largely invisible and there have been few opportunities for people to share their grief collectively, or to link this grief to previous and existing loss and bereavement. 

“Whilst we recognise that the pandemic is not over, we hope that this mutual act of remembrance will help to recognise the many losses that people have experienced and to make these visible through the metaphorical light cast by the collective stars.”

‘A moment to connect’

Dr Denise Turner, Senior Lecturer in Social Work at London Met said: “We hope to create a moment to connect by care and unite in loss.

“Whilst we recognise that the pandemic is not over, we hope that this mutual act of remembrance will help to recognise the many losses that people have experienced and to make these visible through the metaphorical light cast by the collective stars. We welcome any individuals, groups and organisations joining with us.”

Among the organisations supporting the initiative are London Metropolitan university,  Queen’s University Belfast, and the Care Provider Alliance.