72 years ago today the NHS was launched by Aneurin Bevan, Minister of Health, at Park Hospital in Manchester For the first time, hospitals, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, opticians and dentists were brought together under one umbrella to provide care for free.
We want to say Happy Birthday to our amazing National Health Service and a huge thank you to all the people who make it great – both the frontline staff, and all those working in the background to keep it running smoothly and look after us all. This year has made us all appreciate you more than ever.
Please click this link for a statement from NHS England about the birthday and thanking everyone for their support https://www.england.nhs.uk/nhsbirthday/about-the-nhs-birthday/
Following on from the ‘moment of remembrance last yesterday the NHS is inviting everyone to come together today to mark their birthday:
“On Sunday 5 July, the day the NHS was founded, the whole country is invited to come together at 5pm to applaud all those who have been helping us through the pandemic and recognise the vital community connections that continue to support us all.
Broadcasters will suspend normal transmissions at 5pm.
Everybody will be encouraged to stop what they’re doing and join with others (following social distancing advice of course) in their streets or neighbourhoods to applaud not just the NHS and other key workers but all those who have volunteered or helped keep services and community networks going.
Following the applause, we hope people will enjoy a drink or a cup of tea and reflect with family, friends and neighbours on the bonds that have sustained us in recent months and will continue to do so”
There are a number of other things happening to commemorate this anniversary:
People’s Picture – Rainbows for the NHS
