SALFORD CELEBRATES 75-YEARS OF THE NHS: A LEGACY OF COMPASSION AND CARE

Seventy-five years ago, on July 5th, 1948 history was made and the face of public healthcare across the country changed for the better, with the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS). 

The NHS embodies the core principle of universal healthcare, providing comprehensive life saving medical services to all, irrespective of their social or economic background. For three-quarters of a century, our health service has stood as a symbol of national unity, ensuring that every individual has access to quality healthcare, regardless of their financial means.

It has faced its fair share of challenges over the years, most recently as the world was gripped by the global Covid-19 pandemic, testing the NHS like never before, yet those within it stood firm, providing care and support in the face of adversity.

Medical staff at Salford Royal Hospital put their own lives in danger to treat the countless souls who were struck down with the life threatening virus, in doing so they were elevated to the status of national heroes.

The reality is they were already heroes, saving lives on a daily basis, as to them it is simply 'What they do'.

The NHS has long been under threat from political shifts and technological advancements to budget constraints and a multitude of public health crises, but it has displayed resilience, adaptability, and innovation. 

From ground-breaking surgical procedures to advancements in diagnostic technologies and pharmaceuticals, the NHS has been at the forefront of medical progress and is the envy of the world. For 75 years, healthcare professionals have demonstrated unwavering dedication, working tirelessly to alleviate suffering and promote well-being.

I was recently diagnosed with Type-1 Diabetes and my treatment by the NHS in Salford has been a far cry from what I see happening in other places such as North America where some unfortunately find it hard to afford the medicines to keep them alive. I never forget just how lucky I am to live in a country in which my healthcare is not dependent on the level of medical insurance I can afford.

Throughout its history, the NHS's commitment to patient-cantered care has been the driving force behind its success, with doctors, nurses, support staff, and volunteers going above and beyond to ensure the physical and emotional well-being of individuals and their families.

I have experienced that compassion and care first hand in recent years and I am truly grateful that the service continues to exist and it would be a national tragedy if that were to change. 

So it is only right as the NHS celebrates its 75th anniversary, that Salford City Council will be joining in the celebrations to mark the 75th anniversary and will join local authorities, NHS sites, and historic monuments across the country by ‘lighting up blue’  at the Salford Civic Centre Building.

The NHS needs to be protected at all cost as they are ultimately the ones that continue protect us.

Main Photo ©: Salford City Council