Sutton Scene - Chair of the People Committee Column

A week to remember

Last Sunday was the day to remember all those who died, not only during the two World Wars, but the many other conflicts since. 

The main Civic Act of Remembrance took place at Carshalton Memorial last Sunday (8 November). Given the current lockdown situation, the event, like many others, had to be scaled back. But the Mayor of Sutton, Councillor Trish Fivey, and other dignitaries were present at the service and laid wreaths. The service was livestreamed for residents to view.

This Wednesday was Armistice Day, which is marked by a two-minute silence at 11am. The Chief Executive and the Mayor observed the silence and lowered the flag in Sutton High Street - reminding us that we are all part of a community and that those we were remembering were once part of our communities. The Council also launched a ‘poppy crossing’ in Carshalton to remember those who have died in conflict. It is one of just a few in the country and has proved an incredibly popular initiative already.

During this lockdown and the previous lockdown, we have seen many acts of kindness from neighbours, friends, and community groups in Sutton. Today, Friday 13th, marks World Kindness Day - a day to promote the importance of being kind to each other, to yourself and the world. Kindness is what binds us together. Being kind does not need to be extravagant, sometimes the simplest things make a difference:

• Smile and say hello when you walk by others (socially distanced!)

• Call someone you haven’t spoken to in a while

• Send an encouraging or positive message to five people in your contacts

• Offer to help someone in your local area.

As Sutton residents, you will have plenty more acts of kindness you can demonstrate with your family, friends and neighbours.

As we draw to the end of the week, we have a celebration for Diwali - the festival of lights. Once again, due to the current restrictions, Sutton’s Cultural Services have organised a Diwali party online on Saturday at 4pm.

So, a week of remembrance, kindness and celebration. As we continue to live in difficult times, it is important that we focus on being kind and helping those less fortunate, but also celebrating important events in whatever ways suit our individual circumstances.

If you or anyone you know is in need of support, Sutton Council, the voluntary sector and health services have come together to explain what support is available for families throughout the winter. Please see the link for a new booklet produced signposting support in the borough.