Benefits from benchside to bedside showcased for NHS anniversary

The National Health Service celebrates its 70th anniversary this year and we are marking the occasion by highlighting the historic partnership between the NHS and universities.

With today’s clinicians working both at bedside and at the benchside with academics at the cutting edge of medical science, all while teaching the doctors of the future, the University of Leicester aims to show that the vital relationship between universities and public health is closer than ever.

We are inviting everyone to join us and our local NHS Trusts for a free family fun day celebrating the 70th anniversary of the National Health Service on Saturday 7 July from 11.00am-3.00pm.

Members of the public can discover what more they can do to look after their health and wellbeing with talks about nutrition and child health and safety from Leicestershire Partnership Trust (LPT), diabetes checks from the Leicester Diabetes Centre, meet the emergency services and look inside their vehicles, and doctors and experts from Paediatrics and the Children’s Hospital on hand to answer questions. Children can build their confidence with doctor’s visits by bringing their favourite stuffed toys for a mini-health check by medical students at the Teddy Bears Clinic – and perhaps have one themselves.

Everyone can boost their skills with defibrillator training by Leicester University Community First Responders, Paediatric first aid demonstrations from LPT, CPR training from HeartWize, juicing and smoothie demonstrations from Together Against Cancer, and relaxation and well-being in children workshops from the Wellbeing Crew.

All this with entertainment for all ages, including music from STARS Youth Choir, Look-a-lady Ukulele, Irish dancing, science demonstrations, bouncy castles, arts and crafts, and Alice in Wonderland characters in attendance.

Local Leicester charities will also be represented, including Rainbows Children's Hospice, Children's Cancer Leukemia Group, Leicester Hospitals Charity Children's appeal, Way of the Horse Therapeutic Centre, LAMP (Leicester Action for Mental Health Project) and Leicester Marrow Society.

The official NHS70 celebration date is Thursday 5 July but the University will be running activities throughout the year to mark the 70 years. And later in the year, the University will recognise the outstanding contribution of healthcare professionals to its academic mission by awarding honorary titles to a number of NHS colleagues who have worked in partnership with the University.

Entry is free, but visitors will be asked to donate towards the two local NHS charities Raising Health and Leicester Hospitals Charity. Free parking will be available in the Welford Road car-park.