People in Hull and the East Riding are being urged to take part in the biggest ‘thank-you’ the country has ever seen on the birthday of the NHS this weekend, culminating in an epic pause for applause at 5pm on Sunday.
This major country-wide coming together will thank all those who have been helping us through the pandemic and recognise the vital community connections that continue to support us all.
Broadcasters will suspend normal transmissions at 5pm as people across the country pause what they’re doing to think of others.
NHS Hull Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and NHS East Riding of Yorkshire CCG are encouraging people to join neighbours in the streets (following social distancing advice) to applaud not just the NHS and other key workers but all those who have volunteered or helped keep services and community networks going.
Erica Daley, NHS Hull CCG Interim Chief Operating Officer, said:
“This is an opportunity to celebrate with our community, reflect on the achievements of our NHS and applaud our local resilience during this pandemic. However, we must also take this opportunity to remember all those we have lost to this virus, including key workers whose sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
Following the applause, it is hoped people will enjoy a drink or a cup of tea and reflect with family, friends and neighbours on the bonds that have sustained us in recent months.
The NHS itself will be saying its own big thank you to everybody who has helped it continue doing its job in the face of the biggest health challenge it has ever faced.
Paula South said:
“I hope many of you will join us in not only marking the 72nd anniversary of the NHS but in thanking everyone without whom the NHS wouldn’t have been able to respond to coronavirus. Over the last few months, we have seen many moving stories of NHS staff overcoming adversity and working in very challenging circumstances, let us hope that these stories help inspire some of you to consider a career in the NHS.”
On Saturday evening everybody is encouraged to put a light in their windows in remembrance of those we have lost during the pandemic.
Buildings across Hull and the East Riding, including the Inspire CAMHS Inpatient Unit, Hull University Medical Allam Building, Hull City Hall and Ferens Art Gallery will be joining famous landmarks in lighting up in NHS blue.
