NHS is a ‘vital part of our social fabric’

The Church of Scotland is calling on people to join tributes to healthcare staff to mark the 72nd anniversary of the NHS this weekend.
The Rt Rev Dr Martin Fair, the Moderator of the Church of Scotland, is supporting the clap for carers event taking place at 5pm on Sunday. Photo: Andy O'BrienThe Rt Rev Dr Martin Fair, the Moderator of the Church of Scotland, is supporting the clap for carers event taking place at 5pm on Sunday. Photo: Andy O'Brien
The Rt Rev Dr Martin Fair, the Moderator of the Church of Scotland, is supporting the clap for carers event taking place at 5pm on Sunday. Photo: Andy O'Brien

The Rt Rev Dr Martin Fair, the Moderator of the Church of Scotland, is supporting the clap for carers event taking place at 5pm on Sunday.

He said: “The NHS is a vital part of our social fabric. It is remarkable that a society would embark on a mission to offer health, healing and care to every citizen at the point of need.

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“This is an act of collective kindness, generosity and solidarity.

“It is a national endeavour in loving our neighbour, and in 2020 we have seen the institution and its people respond to unprecedented challenges.”

The NHS was launched by health minister Aneurin Bevan in Manchester on July 5, 1948, uniting various health professions under one umbrella.

This year has been perhaps the toughest in the history of the health service due to the global pandemic and lockdown restrictions. Playing a key role in supporting patients, relatives and staff in hospitals, clinics and hospices are healthcare chaplains, including numerous clergy from the Kirk.

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Mark Evans, head of spiritual care for NHS Fife, said the NHS is an “amazing resource”.

He added: “As a society we are so lucky to have such a comprehensive healthcare service.

“Despite the challenges, the standard of care, research and treatment is world beating and we take it for granted at our peril.”

Mr Evans, who began working for the NHS 30 years ago as a student nurse, said chaplains play a unique role and are valued and appreciated by those they serve.

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He added: “We create a safe space for patients, relatives and staff, coming alongside them to listen as they express their hopes, dreams, fears and concerns.

“The last three months have been very busy and challenging and in Fife we have seen a 100 per cent increase in referrals just from staff.

“Simply asking people, from domestics to consultants, ‘how are you?’ makes a huge difference.

“Our role is about relationships and we do not provide answers or a prescription, we are impartial and come with empty hands and an open heart.”

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