A tree was planted in Kisharon’s Covid memorial garden at Childs Hill Library on Tuesday’s national day of reflection for Yechiel Yosef Rothschild, who died last March, aged 20, and is thought to be the community’s youngest Covid victim.

YY, as he was known, was supported by Kisharon, having moved from his family home in Stamford Hill in early 2019 to a supported living flat nearby. He was also a student at Kisharon’s Further Education College.

Hadassa Kessler, the charity’s director of operations and development, knew YY well. She said he had “left a strong impression on everyone he met during his time supported by Kisharon. His presence was overwhelming with warmth and consideration for others and his great sense of humour meant that we often spent our time together laughing. I will always remember his kind smile.”

Designated as a quiet place for reflection for those who have experienced loss, the memorial garden was the idea of Kisharon volunteer Sarah Adler, who pointed out that “everyone knows someone who has died from this terrible disease. The worst part is that families had no opportunity to say goodbye.”

There are rose bushes and other plants, as well as a commemorative plaque. A bench will be added soon.