The NHS want to hear your stories of working in or receiving treatment from the service as it celebrates its 75th birthday this July.

They are particularly interested in those who remember life before the service, those who have worked in it, volunteers who have given up their time, and stories about how the NHS has impacted people's lives.

Shelagh Meldrum, Chief Nursing Officer, NHS Somerset said, “I have loved nursing since the first day of my training. My career in health has spanned several roles both nursing and non-nursing but being a nurse has kept me focussed on what we are here for – to care for people.

“Since I began my nurse training in 1987, going on to work as a senior nurse in acute medicine before becoming a specialist nurse in neurology and then into executive director roles - I have seen many changes both from a medical as well as a technological perspective, all of which seek to improve the care and treatment we provide and the outcomes for those who use our services.

“I am incredibly proud to have spent 22 years working for such a wonderful British institution, one which is by our side during the most profound moments in our lives and at its heart, is driven by one collective ambition – to care for patients. 

“This year we want to celebrate the NHS and all it has achieved so this is a chance for people from across Somerset to help us build a picture of the impact it has had on their lives.

“We are keen to hear from people who have worked or are working in the NHS, hear their stories and find out what makes them do what they do, as well as hearing from past and present patients – whether they were born the same year the NHS was, or they simply want to talk about the care they have received – every story matters.”  

NHS Somerset has asked everyone with a reflection, memory or story they would like to share to get in touch to build a picture of Somerset from across the years. To submit your story email [email protected].