To coincide with International Workers Memorial Day we have produced a film paying tribute to health and care workers across the East Midlands who have lost their lives to coronavirus.
Click here to view the video directly on youtube
You can also view and share the video on our facebook, twitter and instagram
UNISON and other unions are urging everyone to observe a minute’s silence at 11am today. This would allow the UK to pay its respects and give thanks for the lives of those whose work involved caring, saving lives, keeping key services running and the rest of the country safe. The tribute is also a show of support for the families of those who have died.
UNISON East Midlands regional secretary Chris Jenkinson said: “Every year across the globe unions stand in silence to remember those who have lost their lives at work. This year we will do the same to remember our essential public service workers who have paid the ultimate price for helping others in their hour of need.”
UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said: “This is the ultimate tribute to remember workers who’ve lost their lives and put themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe and vital services running. Every year the sacrifice of workers around the world is recognised, but this year has a special significance because of the pandemic.
“Thousands of key staff are on the frontline while the rest of us are in lockdown. That’s why we’d like to see the whole country to take part and remember the sacrifices workers have made. The best tribute we can all pay them is to stay inside to protect the NHS.
“The minute’s silence is a thank you to all the workers including nurses, midwives, cleaners and care staff who’ve died from this devastating virus.”
As the COVID-19 virus spreads, find out what your rights at work are.