NHS staff from across the South East have been participating in events to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the organization. They attended a service at Westminster Abbey and a reception at 10 Downing Street.
Various sites and landmarks, including the Dartford Crossing and Brighton Pier, were illuminated in blue to mark the occasion.
Health Minister Maria Caulfield expressed confidence that the NHS would be “thriving” in 25 years, despite expert concerns about its long-term sustainability.
The anniversary coincides with a year of industrial action by NHS staff over pay disputes.
Ms. Caulfield, who is also a nurse and the MP for Lewes, reflected on her 30-year tenure within the NHS, noting, “I’ve worked in the NHS for over 30 years of its 75 years.
I’ve witnessed significant changes, and despite ongoing skepticism about its future, I am very confident that in 25 years’ time the NHS will be thriving.”
Anne Eden, regional director for NHS South East, remarked,
“The NHS relies on the millions of dedicated staff and volunteers who have continuously adapted and innovated to meet new challenges and care for successive generations.
As we celebrate the NHS’s 75th birthday and consider what the next 75 years might bring, I want to extend my gratitude to NHS staff across the South East for their ongoing efforts.”
Landmarks illuminated in blue included Bluewater shopping centre, Brighton Pier, Hever Castle, the QE2 bridge at Dartford, and Rochester Cathedral and Castle.
Bruno De Oliveira, chair of the Brighton and Hove Health and Wellbeing Board, commented,
“Seeing the city light up blue is a powerful reminder of how vital the NHS is to our lives, and I hope this continues for a long time.”
