Together, let’s thank all our key workers

UNISON has become a partner in the /together coalition, which this weekend will unite the country to celebrate the NHS’ birthday and commemorate all those who have died from the coronavirus.

Words Thank you, coloured in, plus the logos of /Together and UNISON
The group unites a wide range of supporters who intend to heal divisions and reconnect society over the course of the next decade, after a bruising few years.

It includes NHS bodies, including the NHS Confederation and NHS England, as well as organisations and employers such as the BBC, the Mirror, Aviva, the Young Vic Theatre and ITV.

There are religious groups such as the Muslim Council of Great Britain, sporting bodies including the Football Association and UK Sport, and a number of civil society organisations like the Jo Cox Foundation, the Runnymede Trust and the Girl Guides. It has been backed by prominent figures such as the Archbishop of Canterbury, Gary Lineker, June Sarpong and Michael Sheen.

Over the course of the next few days it will be honouring people who have lost their lives during the pandemic and showing appreciation for everyone who has been caring and keeping us safe, but also looking to the future.

This Saturday evening (4 July), the /together partners will commemorate coronavirus victims, whether key workers or members of the public, by asking everyone to put a light or a candle in their window to show their support.

Sunday is the 72nd birthday of the NHS and at 5pm everyone across the UK is being encouraged to join the biggest ever ‘clap for carers’ to thank all key workers, as well as raise a cup of tea – or a tipple of their choosing – with their neighbours.

UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said: “As a society we’re living through troubled times, and are sadly nowhere near out of the woods yet. Communities and families have been devastated by the virus, which has taken too many lives, kept loved ones apart and made people fear for the future.

“But we can come together, as the weekly claps from our doorsteps and balconies showing our appreciation for those who’ve been keeping us safe have demonstrated.

“By giving thanks for all those who’ve lost their lives, recognising the wonders of the health service and social care sector, and doing everything we can to build a more positive future, UNISON’s proud to give its backing to /together.”