Coronavirus: Melton borough to fall silent at 11am for NHS victims

A one minute’s silence will take place across the country, on what is International Workers’ Memorial Day, and has been organised by the Royal College of Nursing, the Royal College of Midwives and UNISON.

More than 100 NHS health workers and carers have died after testing positive for the virus.

The NHS in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR) has paid tribute to the selfless heroes who have been victims of the disease, ahead of today’s minute’s silence.

In a touching message, the Chief Executives of LLR’s Clinical Commissioning Groups, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL) and Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust (LPT), said: “We will be forever grateful for the commitment, selflessness and compassion shown by the NHS staff, carers and key workers who have lost their lives trying to save and support others during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“They are true heroes in every sense and have made exceptional sacrifices putting us before themselves, to protect us and keep essential services running. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to our fallen heroes.

“Thank you also to their colleagues who are keeping their legacy alive – delivering excellent care and support on the frontline to get us through these exceptionally challenging times.

“The safety of our staff and patients remains our top priority. Our NHS staff are working tirelessly to support people with coronavirus whilst keeping routine services open.

“This means that people can, and should still access NHS services for symptoms not related to coronavirus.

“A big thank you also to all our carers, who are providing vital care and support to some of our most vulnerable people, to key workers who are operating essential services and our volunteers who are giving up their time to help those most in need.

“Together, you are all helping us to rise against the pandemic.

“Finally, we are grateful to the public for playing their part.

“By following the Government’s advice on social distancing and staying home, our local people are saving lives and protecting the NHS.

“It is even more important now, that we continue to follow social distancing measures to continue to protect ourselves and one another.

“We recognise that it is challenging living life very differently to what we’re used to, but please be patient with the lockdown.

“It is important that we remember the sacrifices that our heroes have made and continue to make – please don’t let these efforts go in vain.

“We are in this together and together we will get through it.”