The Queen addresses the nation as Coronavirus deaths rise
Her Majesty The Queen addressed the UK and the Commonwealth in the broadcast
Last updated 11th May 2021
The Queen today addressed the UK and the Commonwealth in a pre-recorded message discussing the Coronavirus outbreak that has swept across the UK. During the message, which was recorded at Windsor Castle, The Queen said, "I'm speaking to you at what I know is an increasingly challenging time, a time of disruption in the life of our country, a disruption that has brought grief to some, financial difficulties to many and enormous changes to the daily lives of us all.
"I want to thank everyone on the NHS frontline, as well as care-workers and those carrying out essential roles who selflessly continue their day-to-day duties outside the home in support of us all. I'm sure the nation will join me in assuring you that what you do is appreciated and every hour of your hard work brings us closer to a return to more normal times.
"I also want to thank those of you who are staying at home, thereby helping to protect the vulnerable and sparing many families the pain already felt by those who have lost loved ones. Together we are tackling this disease and I want to reassure you that if we remain united and resolute then we will overcome it.
"I hope in the years to come everyone will be able to take pride in how they responded to this challenge and those who come after us will say the Britain's of this generation were as strong as any. The attributes of self-discipline of quiet good humoured resolve and of fellow feeling still categorise this country.
"The pride in who we are is not part of our past, it defines our present and our future. The moments when the United Kingdom has come together to applaud its care and essential workers will be remembered as an expression of our national spirit. And its symbol will be the rainbows drawn by children."
Watch The Queen's speech in full
Addressing those struggling with self isolating, "Though self-isolating may at times be hard, many people of all faiths and of none, are discovering that it presents an opportunity to slow down, pause and reflect in prayer or meditation.
"It reminds me of the very first broadcast I made in 1940, helped by my sister. We as children spoke from here at Windsor to children who had been evacuated from their homes and sent away for their own safety. Today, once again, many will feel a painful sense of separation from their loved ones, but now as then we know deep down that it is the right thing to do."
The Queen went on to discuss the Global threat. "We will succeed and that success will belong to every one of us."
During her reign, this was only the fourth special address at a time of national crisis during her 68-year reign. The Queen had previously addressed the nation in 2002 following the Queen Mother's death, in 1997 ahead of Diana, Princess of Wales's funeral and in 1991 during the First Gulf War.
Last month, The Queen released a statement as she arrived at Windsor Castle that read, "As Philip and I arrive at Windsor today, we know that many individuals and families across the United Kingdom, and around the world, are entering a period of great concern and uncertainty.
"We are all being advised to change our normal routines and regular patterns of life for the greater good of the communities we live in, and, in particular, to protect the most vulnerable within them."
The statement, which was issued by the royal household on Thursday afternoon, continued: "At times such as these, I am reminded that our nation’s history has been forged by people and communities coming together to work as one, concentrating our combined efforts with a focus on the common goal.
"We are enormously thankful for the expertise and commitment of our scientists, medical practitioners and emergency and public services; but now more than any time in our recent past, we all have a vitally important part to play as individuals - today and in the coming days, weeks and months.
"Many of us will need to find new ways of staying in touch with each other and making sure that loved ones are safe. I am certain we are up to that challenge. You can assured that my family and I stand ready to play our part."