NHS 70: Celebration time for our health service - 70 years as pride of a nation

The big day is almost here '“ and you're invited to take part in the fun.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Seven decades ago, following the Second World War and at a time when King George VI was on the throne and Clement Attlee was Prime Minister, the National Health Service was launched.

Still the pride of the world today, it was set up with a simple vision: that services should be comprehensive, universal, and free at the point of delivery.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

In recent months, the Post has told the stories of people who quite simply would not be here today without the expertise and unrivalled care provided by the army of medics working on our hospital wards, in A&E, and in our communities.

And bosses at Royal Preston Hospital and Chorley Hospital say the NHS’s 70th birthday, next Thursday, July 5, is the ‘perfect opportunity to celebrate the achievements of one of the nation’s most loved institutions, to appreciate the vital role the service plays in our lives, and to recognise and thank the extraordinary NHS staff – the everyday heroes – who are there to guide, support, and care for us, day in, day out’.

Parties will be held at both hospitals next Saturday, July 7, to mark the momentous occasion.

Ward 15 manager at Preston Emma Kevill has organised the event along with a team of staff, and said she hopes it will be fun for all the family.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

She said: “It’s been really fun to organise this day, alongside a fantastic team from across the hospital who have volunteered their time to help make this day a success

Royal Preston HospitalRoyal Preston Hospital
Royal Preston Hospital

“It’s been a real team effort and an exciting opportunity to get everyone together for something positive and to celebrate the NHS.”

The fun day at Chorley has been organised by a team led by ward manager Anne Titterington, who said: “We’re thrilled to be able to celebrate the NHS turning 70 by getting staff from across our hospitals together to make a fun day for our communities.

“The event will be fun for all the family, but also provide an educational experience to learn more about the NHS and what we do.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Nursing, midwifery, and allied health professionals director at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals, Gail Naylor (pictured, inset) added: “As the NHS turns 70 this year, it has been great to see so many staff from across our hospitals pull together to celebrate.

“The NHS turning 70 is the perfect opportunity for us to look back at our achievements and promote what we do; as well as look forward to the next 70 years.”

What are we celebrating?

The parties in Preston and Chorley are part of a national celebration of our health service.

Special NHS70 events, exhibitions, awards and initiatives are planned around the country to celebrate the past achievements and the future of the NHS.

Chorley HospitalChorley Hospital
Chorley Hospital
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The celebrations aim to shine a light on the 1.5 million people across the country who provide the quality service that makes the NHS work every day.

They also celebrate the work by volunteers, NHS charities and social care staff, voluntary sector, social enterprise and charity partners.

NHS70 will profile their skills, experiences and successes and also look at the future challenges faced by their workforce.

For 70 years the NHS has been delivering first class care and the NHS70 celebrations will also continue to look at the pioneering medical advances and world class treatments given from the public health service.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The celebrations also look at the clinical, technological, scientific and workforce accomplishments and breakthroughs over the years.

NHS70 also aims to look at the future of the NHS and will be driving public conversation about what the future holds whilst building confidence with staff and patients regarding their concerns with the NHS’s future.

The celebrations will also encourage the public to get involved and support their local NHS and the NHS70 campaign.

NHS70 aims to inspire people of all ages to support the NHS by volunteering or working with the health service; supporting NHS charities or signing up to NHS research programmes; or simply by giving blood or committing 
to looking after your own health.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Find out more information about what’s on at www.england.nhs.uk/nhs70.

What’s on?

ROYAL PRESTON HOSPITAL

A family fun day will be held from 11am until 4pm on Saturday, July 7.

Car park E will be open to include games and activities, a bouncy castle, face painting, music, and various competitions and prizes, including the chance to win a holiday.

Charters Restaurant will host stalls manned by staff showcasing the work the hospital has been doing, and the changes to the NHS over the past seven decades.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Health Academy One will be open to show off simulation ambulances and a fire engine, to teach people about burns and plastics. And the Clinical Research Facility will showcase the work it does, and give visitors the chance to make their own DNA necklace.

CHORLEY AND SOUTH RIBBLE HOSPITAL

A family fun day will also be held there from 11am until 4pm on Saturday, July 7.

There will be activities and games, singing from both school and adult choirs, and information stands.

Activities will include food stalls, afternoon tea, children’s events such as face painting, sand art, pony rides, and more.

Get involved

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

In the years since 1948, the NHS has cared for us all, from cradle to grave.

We would like our readers to help us celebrate the NHS, and the fabulous men and women who work in it, by sharing their stories of how the NHS has helped them.

From bringing mother and babies through difficult births, to cutting edge cancer treatments and life-saving emergency care, we want to hear from you.

If you have a story to share please email [email protected] including your number, or call 01772 838164.