Sutton gives thanks to frontline heroes

The United Kingdom’s pioneering National Health Service (NHS) was created on 5 July 1948, bringing free healthcare to everyone. It has been a treasured national institution ever since, but never more so than since March 2020, when the Coronavirus pandemic gripped the UK and utterly changed all our lives.

Today is a chance to show our gratitude to all NHS and front line staff with an annual day of thanks, and remembrance of those who lost their lives to the disease. The first NHS, Social Care and Frontline Workers’ Day takes place on Monday, July 5 2021 with a series of events involving every aspect of society and raising money for two excellent causes – NHS Charities Together, which supports 250 hospitals and their charitable trusts, and the National Care Association, representing 1.6 million workers caring for some of society’s frailest citizens.

Sutton is flying the flag in Trinity Square and a two minute silence was observed at 11am to remember those who have passed away protecting us, and in memory of Captain Tom Moore, who supported the NHS Charities Together through his incredible fundraising efforts during the pandemic.

Councillor Ruth Dombey, Leader of Sutton Council, said:

“Today we will celebrate - and remember - the incredible people, who have given so much to keep us, our loved ones, our friends and colleagues safe; as well as caring for those left seriously ill by the virus and even, in many sad cases, lost their lives.

“The frontline workers of Sutton are the true heroes of our wonderful community. They are the best of us and deserve the recognition this day brings them.

“This annual day of thanks is a chance for us to show our immense gratitude to NHS, social care and frontline workers for their incredible efforts, not just during the pandemic, but every day of the last 73 years.”