Burton and Uttoxeter’s MP, Kate Griffiths, is encouraging constituents to spread community kindness following day of reflection after the anniversary of lockdown. The local MP has taken part in the Children’s Charity, Variety’s campaign to support others in the community and those impacted by the last 12 months.
As the UK prepares to emerge from Covid restrictions, Variety, the Children’s Charity, has announced a partnership with 23 March - a campaign to commemorate the day the Prime Minister first announced lockdown.
The 23 March campaign aims to inspire the public to keep passing on the acts of kindness that flourished so noticeably during the past year to ensure that the community spirit seen during lockdown - and embodied by the late Captain Sir Tom Moore - continues, in the good times as well as the bad.
The families of children Variety supports have described facing a range of challenges brought about by the pandemic. These include a reduction in their usual support services and therapies, changes in routine, being isolated at home, and the demands of home schooling, which are particularly tough for children with special educational needs. Job losses or reduced employment have also taken their toll, especially given that the outgoings of families with a disabled child are, on average, £600 a month higher than those of families with non-disabled children.
Member of Parliament for Burton and Uttoxeter, Kate Griffiths, said: “Our community and country have been through so much these past 12 months and it was important to pay respect and reflect on the pandemic with the minutes silence that was observed across the country. I would encourage all constituents to carry on the community spirit we have seen throughout the pandemic and support those who are less fortunate.”
Former Cabinet Minister Rt Hon Esther McVey MP, a Variety Ambassador, added: “It’s absolutely essential that we mark this first anniversary with a national day of reflection. To remember those who have lost so much, have done so much and also to look forward to a brighter future with our freedoms restored.”
