Online Book of Remembrance
East Ayrshire Council has created an online book of remembrance for families who have lost a loved one during the Coronavirus pandemic.
When lockdown began on Monday 23 March, life changed completely and people had to adjust to a new normal. The restrictions, necessary to protect the NHS and save lives, have been followed by individuals and communities across Scotland who understand that this is a collective effort that can only be addressed together.
This sense of togetherness has been difficult to align with the need to be physically separated from our friends, neighbours and families. The world is so different that people are feeling a sense of loss for normality and a loss of control.
For those who have lost a loved one during these difficult times this sense of loss has been magnified. Grieving without friends and family and having no physical contact with family attending a funeral has been very painful.
Councillor Elena Whitham, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities said: “Our bereavement services team work closely with local Funeral Directors and bereaved families and have witnessed first-hand the terrible pain that bereaved families have experienced.
“Our employees working in bereavement administration and in our cemeteries have been so strong. I am incredibly proud of their exceptional efforts during such difficult times and their unfaltering commitment to our bereaved families.
“They have also spoken of the strength of our communities during these difficult times. We know of at least two funerals where whole communities paid their respects from their own gardens, clapping gently and bowing to the funeral cortege. This has brought great comfort to many.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Provost Jim Todd who attended a funeral recently, for a member of our community who had no family. He paid his respects with our bereavement services team, ensuring that no one in East Ayrshire will ever take their final journey alone.
“To help the bereaved through this incredibly difficult time, we have created an online book of remembrance. You can submit your loved ones’ name, year of birth, a message of remembrance and a photo through the Council’s website. We will also be supporting anyone who wishes to hold a memorial service when it is safe to do so and supported by guidance from the Scottish Government.”
Visit our book of remembrance and leave a message in memory of your loved one at: