NHS75: Westcountry locations to be lit-up in a 'dazzling shade of blue'
The Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board are encouraging as many people as possible to get involved
Last updated 3rd Jul 2023
Later this week, locations across the Westcountry will be marking 75 years of the NHS with a 'stunning light display' at a trio of local landmarks.
The famous Roman Baths, Swindon's Central Library and Salisbury Cathedral will be lit-up on Wednesday (July 5) in a 'dazzling shade of blue'.
Locals are urged to visit, enjoy the displays, and look back on their own experiences of the health service.
Sue Harriman, Chief Executive, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “People have always been at the heart of the NHS and I know so many people have the NHS in their hearts, which is why I hope residents in our region will join me in sharing an enormous sense of pride when these iconic local landmarks go blue on Wednesday 5 July.
“For 75 years, the NHS has been a constant aspect of our everyday lives, and something we have all relied upon at one time or another.
“I’m sure that people in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire going about their everyday lives will see these anniversary light displays and be warmly reminded of their own experience of the NHS, and how it has cared for them and their families over the years.”
The NHS became the world’s first health service that was available for free at the point of need when it was established on Monday 5 July 1948.
Now, in 2023, the NHS cares for around one million people each and every day.
Cllr Jim Robbins, Leader, Swindon Borough Council, said: “I’m delighted that we will be supporting this cherished service on its 75th anniversary by lighting up the Central Library blue, and I would encourage everyone to get involved in NHS75 by volunteering, supporting NHS charities or by giving blood.”
Councillor Sarah Warren, Deputy Leader, Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “This is a small gesture of appreciation for the tireless work that the NHS staff do every day to care for people. The health service has a huge impact on our community, and we hope that these illuminations will serve as a reminder of the incredible efforts of NHS staff over the years.”
July also sees the anniversary of the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board.
It came into being at one minute past midnight on Friday 1 July 2022, following a transition from the region’s former clinical commissioning group.
They have a responsibility of providing £1.5 billion of health services to local people, with their role being to improve integration between the many different organisations providing care across one specific geographical area.
You can find out more about the ICB here.