Staff, patients and visitors at Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (WWL), celebrated 75 years of the NHS.
On 5th July, 1948, the National Health Service (NHS) was officially established and, to help celebrate this milestone with Trusts across the country, a number of events took place across WWL sites.
At Leigh Infirmary, the Jean Heyes Reablement Unit hosted a NHS Big Tea and Fun Day which was attended by patients, staff members and WWL Governors.
Speaking at the event was Director of Corporate Affairs, Paul Howard, who said: “A big Happy Birthday to the NHS. Staff on the unit have really pulled together to create this event, which just shows the spirit of the NHS, thank you and well done to everyone involved.
Beverley Chopoat, Ward Manager on the Jean Heyes Reablement Unit, said: “It’s been lovely to celebrate the NHS’ birthday and WWL’s Big Birthday month. All the money raised today will go towards enhancing our patient’s experience which is just wonderful.”
Afternoon teas were also served to patients Trust-wide with all areas encouraged to decorate in celebration.
Five members of WWL staff, chosen from last year’s STAR Awards winners, attended the special NHS75 service at Westminster Abbey, while two further members of the WWL family were shortlisted in the Fujifilm NHS Photography Competition.
Into the evening WWL will join others across the Wigan borough, and the country, in lighting up some of its buildings in the iconic NHS blue and tomorrow a special WWL NHS 75 Celebration Service will take place for staff in the Chapel of the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary.
Wigan Council Archive will continue to mark the occasion by hosting a NHS 75 Exhibition at the Turnpike Centre, Leigh Town Hall from 22nd July.