Gloucester Cathedral is celebrating 75 years of the NHS this summer, with a special art exhibition taking place from Saturday 1 July until Friday 1 September 2023.
The NHS, which was the first universal healthcare system available to all and free at the point of delivery, turns 75 years old on Wednesday 5 July 2023. Today, the NHS treats over a million people every day in England, with Gloucester Cathedral hosting a special art exhibition in the Cloister to honour this incredible institution.
The NHS 75 Community Art Exhibition features artwork created by local people as part of sessions from NHS Gloucestershire designed to boost mental and physical wellbeing, with a variety of inspiring and uplifting pieces on display.
Alongside artwork created by the local community, there are also images from Gloucestershire Archives on display, showcasing key moments in the NHS's history.
The exhibition hopes to provide insights into the important work of the Gloucestershire Creative Health Consortium and its partners, who work with the NHS to tackle a variety of health issues through creativity.
As part of the exhibition, visitors will have the opportunity to see the award-winning sculpture The Hand That Cared by Deborah Harrison, too.
The poignant piece was created in memory of Fannie Storr, who was a senior nurse in Gloucestershire for many years before becoming the director of nursing education in 1981. She sadly passed away during the Covid-19 pandemic, having dedicated her life to caring for others.
For those who want to worship and give thanks for the NHS, there is also a special evensong to mark NHS 75 at 5.30pm on Thursday 6 July 2023.
Admission to the exhibition is by donation during Gloucester Cathedral's standard opening hours and no tickets are required.
Gloucester Cathedral's usual opening hours may vary from Monday 17 July until Wednesday 2 August 2023 due to the Three Choirs Festival, so visitors are asked to check the cathedral's website for the very latest details.
