It comes as we demand the UK government takes action to protect nursing staff as they continue to work in unsafe conditions.
Health care workers were, and are still, exposed to undue risk to COVID-19 and we’re insisting this is recognised in the upcoming public inquiry.
Pat Cullen, RCN General Secretary & Chief Executive, said: “Our thoughts today are once more with families, friends and colleagues who have lost loved ones.
“Nursing staff across the UK have carried the heavy burden of COVID-19 – working in hospitals, care homes, general practice, the community and beyond.
“Too many lost their lives and we must never forget the dedication and care to their patients and profession.
“The upcoming COVID-19 public inquiry must recognise the sacrifices nurses made to protect patients and their own families and the undue risk that health care workers continue to face.”
Carol Popplestone, Chair of RCN Council, said: “Today, we reflect on the bravery, compassion and contribution of nursing staff.
“We will remember those who have sadly lost their lives during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Those individuals – and the sacrifice they made – must never be forgotten.”
Members are invited to visit the RCN Book of Remembrance to remember those who’ve died.