Staff, visitors and supporters have come together at Walsall Manor Hospital today to celebrate the NHS’ s forthcoming 78th birthday, while fundraising at the same time.
The celebrations included a bake-off competition, cake sale, tea and coffee, ice cream van (Mr Softee), and a range of stalls from local businesses, bringing colleagues and the community together to mark the special occasion.
The event, organised by Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Well Wishers charity, gave staff the chance to showcase their baking skills, while raising money to support projects that enhance the experience of patients, families and staff across hospital and community services.
Nicole Messam, Fundraising Support Officer, said: “The NHS birthday is always a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our amazing staff and the difference they make every single day.
“It has been wonderful to see so many colleagues, visitors and stall holders come together to support Well Wishers. Events like this not only help us raise vital funds, but also create a real sense of community.
“We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who baked, donated, volunteered or supported the event – it really does make a difference.”
Among those taking part in the bake off was Zara Ali, Health Records Clerical Officer, who shared her love of baking while supporting the charity.
Zara said: “I have always enjoyed baking, I bake for my family, friends and work colleagues, but I really wanted to take part in this so others could try my cakes, as well as supporting such a great cause.”
The bake off was won by Kirsty Donaldson, Advanced Clinical Practitioner, who impressed judges with her homemade cookies. Kirsty received a special gift from Well Wishers to celebrate her winning bake.
Local stall holders also joined the celebrations, including Walsall-based business ReVinylized.
Sam Carter, from ReVinylized, said: “We love supporting the NHS and especially Well Wishers. We go to loads of shows around the country, but being back at our home in Walsall is special to us.
“We get along with all the stall holders here and it’s like a little community that we have.”
Well Wishers supports Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust by funding additional equipment, projects and experiences that go above and beyond what the NHS provides.
This Sunday marks the 78th Birthday of the NHS.