Over 1,000 people across Sefton have lost their lives to Covid-19 since the start of the pandemic three years ago.
Memorials to those who lost their lives due to the deadly virus could now be erected in locations across the borough to commemorate them.
Sefton Council will next week (9th February) hear more details about proposals to ensure that those whose lives have been lost are not forgotten.
In her report to councillors, Sefton Council Executive Director (People) Andrea Watts said: “According to the latest national statistics, up to 14th December 2022, 1,022 lives were lost to Covid in Sefton during the pandemic and are continuing.
“The Council has previously considered the timing of the commemoration of lives sadly lost during the pandemic.
“Nationally the UK Commission on Covid Commemoration has completed its consultation and at its meeting in December reported that: ‘The Commission is considering several ideas such as holding a day of reflection and recommending for there to be a Covid symbol. Other ideas under consideration include that of a Covid Commemoration website to promote the day of reflection, provide details of local memorials and commemorative activity and more, and that of teaching about Covid in schools. All these ideas have received wide support from both the events held and the public consultation’.
“The Commission intends to report a series of recommendations to the Prime Minister by the end of March 2023. It is anticipated that, following those recommendations, national guidance will be released which provides detail to the Council on local commemoration.
“Following the receipt of national guidance it is proposed that a further report be brought to the Cabinet for consideration.
“It is suggested that memorials will be placed in all areas of Sefton to ensure each township has a focus of commemoration. Further details on proposed sites and will be subject to full consultation.
“It is expected that funding will be allocated nationally to allow for commemorations to be installed.”
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