NHS commemorates 75th anniversary of Windrush

As Britain marks the 75th anniversary of the arrival of the Windrush, Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board (BLMK ICB) joins the nation in honouring and celebrating the enduring contributions made by the Caribbean pioneers to the NHS.

2023 sees the 75th anniversary of the HMT Empire Windrush arriving in Britain on 22 June 1948. The Windrush passengers arrived in Essex from Caribbean countries following World War Two. Many of these men and women served Britain in the armed forces and were still under British rule. After the war, some of these people answered an advert to come to Britain where there were many jobs to do. When the passengers arrived in Britain, they did not always receive a friendly welcome: it was difficult for them to find jobs and settle due to racism and discrimination.

70 years later, there are more than 500,000 people living in the UK who arrived from the Caribbean during Windrush, with many contributing to UK public services, arts, and culture in Britain.

Felicity Cox, Chief Executive of Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, said: “We are indebted to the Windrush generation for their pivotal role in shaping the foundation of the NHS.

“The launch of the NHS on 5 July 1948 and the arrival of the Windrush 13 days earlier on 22 June are inextricably linked. The Windrush pioneers filled crucial healthcare roles, including in nursing, midwifery, and support services, making significant contributions to the provision of high quality care to patient across the country.

“Their dedication, compassion, and expertise have left an indelible mark on our healthcare system. The 75th anniversary of Windrush provides an opportunity for us to reflect on the remarkable legacy of the Windrush generation and to reaffirm our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion within our healthcare system.”

The 75th anniversary of Windrush also shines a light on the pivotal role that international recruitment plays in ensuring the stability and sustainability of the NHS.

Felicity added: “The NHS has always benefited from overseas recruitment and from nurses coming from other countries to live and work in England. International recruits bring their expertise, experience, and dedication to provide high quality care to patients across the area, and their contributions are invaluable in delivering vital services.”