Pause to reflect on the profound impact of a generation. The Windrush & Commonwealth NHS Nurses and Midwives Statue stands here. It commemorates the extraordinary contributions of nurses and midwives. They came from the Commonwealth to support the fledgling NHS.
Around 40000 nurses and midwives arrived between 1948 and 1973. The NHS faced significant recruitment challenges then. Their dedication was exemplary. Some say the NHS would have collapsed without them.
This granite statue represents a stylized nurse or midwife. Nubian Jak, a community activist group, collaborated with Islington Council and Whittington Hospital. They commissioned it to honor these vital caregivers. The statue stands at Whittington Hospital. Its unveiling occurred on July 5, NHS Day.
Islington Council contributed over £16000 to the project. The Nubian Jak fundraising campaign raised nearly £100000. The statue is 7ft high and 7ft wide. It is made of blue, brown, and white granite.
This statue is only the third public sculpture dedicated to Black females in London. It helps combat the historic omission of Black caregivers from monuments.
Dr. Jak Beula of Nubian Jak expressed his gratitude. He thanked the dedicated Windrush and Commonwealth NHS staff. They served Britain’s health services before and after the NHS foundation.
Councillor Una O’Halloran emphasized the importance of proper commemoration. She noted the lack of monuments for this extraordinary generation. Michelle Johnson, Chief Nurse at Whittington Health NHS Trust, shared her delight. She hoped the memorial would inspire pride. It also encourages discovery of nursing history.
A book titled “Nursing a Nation” was also launched. Jak Beula wrote it. The book shares the stories and lived experiences of these nurses and midwives. Two of Whittington Health’s team members are featured in the book.
The Windrush & Commonwealth NHS Nurses and Midwives Statue serves as a lasting tribute. It honors their legacy and dedication. It reminds us of their invaluable contribution to healthcare in the UK.