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Coronavirus: What do yellow hearts in windows mean?

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yellow-hearts-in-windows.
Image caption,

Lots of other people are now joining in, and sharing their yellow hearts

You might have spotted rainbows and teddies in people's windows during the coronavirus pandemic.

They've been used to brighten up people's areas, and spread a message of hope.

Recently some people have also put a picture of a yellow heart in their windows - they have a special and personal meaning for those who put them up.

Here's everything you need to know.

Why are people putting yellow hearts in their windows?

yellow-heart.Image source, Hannah Gompertz

The yellow hearts are being used to remember loved ones.

The idea was started by Becky and Hannah Gompertz and their granddad, David, after their grandma, Sheila, passed away.

They wanted a special way to remember her and others who have died because of coronavirus.

David also wanted a way for people to show other people that they are grieving, so they don't feel alone.

Figure caption,

WATCH: Coping with grief: 'You're not on your own and you are loved'

They came up with the idea of putting a picture of a yellow heart in their window, and shared it on social media.

So far, over 2000 people have joined their group online and lots of people have copied the idea.

Becky said: "It just shows that this is something that can really help support people, and we just hope that it will do some good...it's good that people are able to grieve together."

yellow-hearts-2020.Image source, Hannah Gompertz
If you, or someone you know, is grieving, there are lots of ways to get help and support:

Child Bereavement UK help line: 0800 02 888 40. Their website also has a live chat for help and support.

The charity Winston's Wish has support on its website and a 24/7 text message service to help. Text WW to 85258.

If you are worried and feeling anxious you can also call Childline on 0800 1111

www.childline.org.uk, external

Child Bereavement UK, external

Winston's Wish, external

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