Glasgow Royal Infirmary staff thoughts on big NHS milestone

The Glasgow hospital marked the 75th anniversary of the healthcare institution.

Staff were treated to an ice-cream truck and tea party to celebrate the special occasion at the hospital.

Staff were treated to ice-cream (Image: Glasgow Times)

They were also joined by buskers and massage teams to help them relax and thank them for all their hard work.

The Glasgow Times visited the hospital to speak to staff and find out what they thought of the milestone and the future of the NHS.

Staff were proud to work for the healthcare provider but admitted they felt pressure after Covid and with the cost-of-living-crisis.

Staff wore vintage uniforms and took part in tea parties to mark the special event (Image: Glasgow Times)

Neil McCallum, director North sector NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “It is so important that we recognise these major milestones.

“The NHS is a unique institution worldwide which has been here now for 75 years, it has taken a long time to get to where we are today.

“I think we have done it in the most fabulous way despite having faced challenges.

“The last few years have been particularly hard for the NHS, but I think we have come through it really strongly and we have done our absolute best to look after the population.

“I am confident the NHS will see another 75 years, the team work together and look after each other so we are always to provide the best care possible.

“It means it may look different in 75 years or 25 years, I have no doubt about it, but there will still be a place for health care.”

Museum volunteers and members took part in the event (Image: Glasgow Times)

Mary Brown, Chief of Medicine for the North Sector, said: “There is a really good atmosphere today as we mark the 75th anniversary, we really need to remember what a great institution we have and protect it.

“This is 30 years to the day that I graduated and went into healthcare, it is a privilege to work in the NHS and look after people. We hope it will still be with us in the next 25 years.”

The hospital displayed old uniforms to mark the anniversary (Image: Glasgow Times)

John Stewart Chair of Friends of Glasgow Royal Infirmary said: "Some Think Tanks say the NHS won't be here when we reach 100 unless there's a significant change in funding model, on that basis we should celebrate when we can.

“Anyone who cares about the NHS has concerns about where it is going.

 “The financial position everyone is in presents a major challenge.

“It is critical that institutions like the NHS are protected and supported.”