News / NHS
#WhyILoveTheNHS campaign launches in Bristol
On July 5 1948, the ambitious dream of creating a health service, free at the point of use for everyone in Britain, became a reality.
Now 70 years on, the NHS continues to save lives, treat people from all walks of life and – despite significant challenges – is still held up as the country’s crown jewel and something to be universally proud of.
Health bosses are asking the people of Bristol to join in the 70th anniversary celebrations by sharing their stories of why they love the NHS across social media channels.
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People across Bristol are invited to share their own stories of why they love the NHS
Andrea Young, North Bristol NHS Trust chief executive, said: “I’m incredibly proud and privileged to say I have worked for this great British mainstay for 40 years.
“Everyone who works for the NHS is extremely passionate about the work they do and the people they care for.
“Most people have some connection with the NHS and all love it for their own reasons and we want to make sure this is celebrated as we head towards this landmark anniversary.”
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School children across the city also have chance to join in the celebrations and find out more about the NHS by getting their creative juices flowing and entering a creative writing and art competition, launched by Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).
Open to children aged three – 11 years old, the competition emphasises thinking about the local NHS in the past and imagining what it could be like in another 70 years.
It is split into three categories, each for different age groups, with different tasks.
The three winners will receive fun prizes themed around a healthy, active lifestyle.

Children across Bristol can take part in a creative writing and drawing competition Copyright: ©Crown Copyright
Clinical chair of the CCG, Dr Jonathan Hayes, said: “The NHS must surely be our most valued national institutions and this year’s anniversary is a great opportunity to celebrate the fact that we have this service and express our gratitude for all its dedicated staff.
“We also want to engage young people in thinking about the NHS and its role in society, and this competition offers a fun and engaging way to do that with a range of categories targeting different ages.
“I hope parents, guardians, teachers and youth group leaders will help to promote this creative opportunity and encourage and support children to take part.”

NHS staff at Southmead Hospital
An exhibition of equipment, photos and memorabilia will be take place in the Brunel atrium at Southmead Hospital from Monday, July 2. Southmead Hospital Charity will also be hosting a 7Tea Party on Thursday, July 5 from 10am, where current and former staff will mix with members of the public to share stories and memories.
The creative children’s competition closes on July 5. For more information, including resources for educators, printable sheets and competition terms and conditions, visit: www.bnssgccg.nhs.uk/ nhs70competition.
To get involved in the #WhyILoveTheNHS campaign, share a message, video or image by printing a specially-designed poster, available from www.nbt.nhs.uk/nhs70, on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram, including the hashtag #WhyILoveTheNHS.
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