The steel monument comprising of hundreds of colourful glass hearts has been officially unveiled at the entrance to Russells Hall Hospital.
This monument has been erected to serve not only as a permanent reminder of all those lost during the COVID-19 Pandemic but also as a deserving tribute to the “bravery and dedication” of the frontline Dudley Group Foundation NHS Trust staff, healthcare professionals, key workers and volunteers across Dudley.
The project was spearhead in 2020 by Councillor Keiran Casey following his motion to Dudley Council to award Freedom of the Borough to frontline staff and Key Workers, in recognition of their service during the pandemic.
In light of the sculpture’s official unveiling today (October 23), he said: “I hope this monument is something which allows us all to remember those lost during the pandemic, pay tribute to the incredible courage, compassion and unity shown by our NHS, healthcare and key workers during such unprecedented times, and act as a wider symbol of hope for our borough.”
The artwork, designed by renowned local artist Steve Field, reflects the rainbows seen throughout the pandemic and stands as a powerful symbol of hope, courage and community spirit – values that defined the borough’s response to the pandemic.
The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust said the sculpture has been made possible thanks to “generous donations” from a range of local organisations and businesses, from Dudley, as well as the wider West Midlands and UK, including: Mitie, Rosscomm, National Express, University of Wolverhampton, B and F Flooring Ltd, Summit Healthcare, Green Square Accord, RMF Group, Midtherm Laser, The Saleem Foundation, the local Labour Party, Dudley College, National Infrastructure Solutions, Black Country Housing Group, Dudley Building Society, Barratt Redrow, Netcom, University of Birmingham, Arts of Change Dudley, Sanctuary Housing Group, Doocey Group, South Staffs Water, Tipton and Coseley Building Society, Taylor Wimpey, Western Power, Travis Perkins, EH Smith, Dudley Trades Union Council, LITE, Stonewater Housing Association, Signs Now and Dudley Council.
The unveiling ceremony featured speeches from the chair of the trust, Sir David Nicholson, Cllr Casey and Deputy Lord Lieutenant Stewart Towe CBE, which were followed by a ribbon-cutting with special guests, including Diane Wake, chief executive of the trust, and the Mayor of Dudley, Cllr Peter Lee.
Diane Wake said: “We are proud to have this beautiful sculpture at Russells Hall Hospital.
“It reflects the strength, resilience and care shown by our staff and partners throughout the pandemic and beyond. We’re delighted to share this special moment with the community.”
