It’s hard to believe it is two years since the first national lockdown, when life as we knew it changed irrevocably. As we now learn to live with Covid and manage its effects in both the short and longer term, the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect and remember those we lost.

In early 2021 we asked UHSussex colleagues to share their experiences of working through the first year of the pandemic serving our communities. The response was fantastic with almost 100 pieces received, from poems to drawings, music and essays.

I’m pleased to announce that these are now available for colleagues, patients, and friends to browse via our newly created Our Covid Stories website. It is intended to be a living and breathing time capsule capturing the inspiring tales of courage and dedication, as well as the spirit of teamwork which endures to this day. If you have a reflection you would like to add to this collection then please do so by completing the submission form.

I’ve personally found it so humbling to hear about the tremendous sacrifices our staff made to care for our patients, in such unknown and difficult circumstances that evolved by the day.

I hope you will join us in commemorating our achievements as a workforce and community.

Thank you for your continued support.

Best wishes

Alan McCarthy, Chair, UHSussex