Nurses and midwives from across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire gathered for a celebratory service at Bristol Cathedral.
It was the first time that Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board, Bristol NHS Group, Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership and Sirona care & health have organised a dedicated service to celebrate the commitment of nurses and midwives in caring for people across the area.
Held on the Eve of International Nurses’ Day, the service included representatives from St John Ambulance, St Peter’s Hospice, social care, Queen’s Institute of Community Nursing, and the Royal Army Medical Service, as well as NHS colleagues.
The family of May Tanner, Bristol Royal Infirmary’s first Black ward sister, were in attendance, with her granddaughter carrying one of two candles presented at the Millennium Altar in celebration, remembrance, and gratitude. Richard Isaiah, Clinical Community Nursing Team Leader at Sirona, carried the second candle. They were accompanied by Bristol Cathedral choir in a touching moment of reflection for all those gathered.
Mary Lewis, Chief Nurse and Allied Health Officer at Sirona care & health, said: “It was a real privilege to come together at Bristol Cathedral for our Celebration of Brilliance to celebrate the extraordinary contribution nurses and midwives make every day across our communities. This event was about shining a light on the difference our colleagues make to people, families and communities.
As Chief Nurse for community services, I felt immense pride seeing so many colleagues recognised and celebrated by peers, leaders, and partners. Nursing and midwifery are professions built on care, skill and commitment, and this event reminded us of the strength and brilliance that exists across our services.”
Photo credit: Lee Pullen Photography
