We have been counting down to the NHS’ birthday by sharing videos from a range of supporters wishing the NHS a happy 76th birthday and sharing a ‘birthday wish’ for the NHS. Those wanting to share a special birthday message include our Charity Champion Jordan Henderson MBE, Stephen Fry, Adam Kay, Kate Garraway MBE and ITV’s Loose Women Brenda Edwards and Kaye Adams. Actor Sir David Jason OBE also shared a personal letter thanking the NHS and our CEO Ellie Orton OBE also recorded a special message.

In his video message, Jordan Henderson, MBE, Charity Champion for NHS Charities Together said:

“I’d like to wish the NHS a very happy 76th birthday. My birthday wish for the NHS is that the NHS workforce get the support they need to do their jobs caring for us all. I know first-hand what an incredible job they do in really difficult circumstances, and how loved and appreciated they are by all of us. Thank you and happy birthday.”

Stephen Fry also recorded a special NHS birthday message. In his video, he said:

“I’m wishing the NHS a very happy 76th birthday. And what’s my birthday wish for the NHS this year? Well, above all, the NHS is not buildings, hospitals, it’s not clinics, it’s not drop-in centres. It’s not even the technology. It’s the staff. And I wish that the staff, more than ever, are treated by the public, and by the NHS and the Government, with the respect and the honour that they deserve. And that everything is done to reduce the pressure, the staff burnout, all the problems that they can face in an increasingly difficult job. The more we honour the staff of the NHS, the stronger the service will be. Happy birthday NHS and happy birthday to all who work in her.”

In her birthday message to the NHS, Ellie Orton OBE, Chief Executive at NHS Charities Together said:

“I would like to wish the NHS a very happy 76th birthday. My birthday wish for the NHS is that despite the huge challenges in healthcare, our incredible NHS workforce get the support that they so badly need and that every one of us, no matter who we are or where we’re from, have access to the best possible healthcare. NHS charities have been here for the last 76 years of the NHS and will continue to be there for the next 76 years.”

Ellie Orton also added:

“We’re grateful to everyone who shared NHS birthday messages with us – including Jordan Henderson, Stephen Fry, Sir David Jason, Adam Kay, Kate Garraway and ITV’s Loose Women Brenda Edwards and Kaye Adams to wish the NHS a happy birthday and share a wish for the year ahead.

“As we celebrate 76 years of the NHS, prioritising the wellbeing of staff and improving patient care has never been more important. That’s why we’re so grateful to everyone who has supported their local NHS charity as part of the NHS Big Tea events happening this week. Working in partnership with NHS charities and the wider voluntary sector is crucial to making sure everyone gets the best possible health care. We will be working closely with the incoming UK Government to make sure the NHS is prioritised, easing pressure on staff and transforming care for patients.”

You can watch the birthday messages on our YouTube channel here.

Locally, NHS charities across the UK have been holding NHS Big Tea events in their communities, aiming to bring everyone together for a cup of tea and a piece of cake while raising vital funds to improve care and support for NHS staff, patients and communities.