Clap set to mark 72nd anniversary of founding of NHS

A UK-WIDE clap to thank the NHS will take place tomorrow, and it is hoped that it will become an annual tradition.

Following the success of the weekly Clap for Carers, people will be encouraged to reflect on the heroes of the pandemic with family and friends at 5pm tomorrow. The date has been picked out because it is the 72nd anniversary of the NHS, founded by Welsh MP Aneurin Bevan.

Bevan became Minister for Health and Housing in 1945, during which time he developed his plans for the NHS, still regarded as “the most far-reaching piece of social legislation in British history”.

For the first 10 weeks of lockdown Britons took to their doorsteps, balconies and front gardens every Thursday evening to clap for carers.

The last clap took place on May 28, after the woman who came up with the idea claimed the show of gratitude had “had its moment” and risked being politicised.

But this Sunday, it will come back as a one-off, with NHS bosses hoping to make it an annual event.

Chief executive for NHS Wales Dr Andrew Goodall said Clap for Carers was “very much embraced” in Wales and he is “delighted” to support the clap on July 5.

“I know communities across Wales will want to pay tribute and thank everyone who has played their part in supporting our nation through this pandemic,” he said.

The nationwide clap has been organised following a letter from the Together coalition, in which influential figures including Sir Simon and the Archbishop of Canterbury the Most Rev Justin Welby voiced their support for making July 5 an official day of commemoration.

Broadcasters will also suspend transmissions for a moment as a mark of respect.