The nation’s beating heart owes you all a huge thank you too

THIS weekend we mark the anniversary of the founding of our country’s proudest achievement: the National Health Service.

And this year, as the NHS fought its greatest challenge yet in Covid-19, the public and NHS staff have pulled together in the face of extraordinary adversity.

All of us have had our lives disrupted by Covid-19 in one way or another.

But although the NHS is the beating heart of this country, it could not function without the support of the wider public.

I want to say a personal thank you to all the teachers who have continued to care for key workers’ children. It is thanks to all of you that we have been able to carry on our work in the health service. I know that I would never have been able to get on with my day job without the wonderful teachers who have supported my daughter Lucie – so thank you particularly to Miss Ging and Mrs Atherton for all their hard work.

We have seen thousands of NHS staff work additional hours. I saw their contribution first-hand while working at the London Nightingale hospital where I was inspired by their professionalism and commitment. I’d urge everyone reading this to consider taking up a career in the NHS, and becoming an even more important part of what makes our country proud, and keeps our neighbours safe.

But first I hope you all can join us today, when we will be saying thank you to everyone who has stuck to the social distancing rules, volunteered to help, come out of retirement, gone to the front line early, put up with a partner’s long working hours or otherwise done their bit to help this country get through one of our darkest times.

Please join your neighbours on your doorsteps at 5pm today for a final round of applause.