On the wards: Then and now
The supposed lack of matrons like Miss Hulme is one of the common criticisms levelled at today’s NHS.
But her role is still being carried out, albeit with a different title.
The NHS for Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s current chief nurse for women and children is Jen Rodgers.
She is the modern equivalent of Miss Hulme, and the curator of her documents.
And despite the technological advancements and leaps in medical science made since 1983, Jen was surprised at how much the two roles have remained the same.
“Reading the two job descriptions I was surprised that, although the language has changed, the roles were remarkably similar,” explained Jen.
“From ensuring best practice on the wards to developing staff, her objectives were remarkably similar.
“One thing I did notice when looking at the pictures was the amount of smiling, healthy children.
“These days if children are well enough then the best place for them to recuperate is probably at home.”
It’s not just the decisions made on the wards which differs for busy Jen.
“The life Miss Hulme led was very different from the one I do as chief nurse now,” she added. “For a start she would not have been able to marry or have children, instead dedicating herself to the job.
“Nurses would have been a bit scared and would have stood up when Miss Hulme entered a room – I would hope they don’t do that with me! “And I don’t have a dog underneath my desk.
“I feel so lucky to have got to know so much about Olive and her very special life and privileged that we are now the proud custodians of her NHS memorabilia. She really was a special lady.”
I feel so lucky to have got to know so much about Olive and her very special life. She was a really special lady