We celebrated the 70th Anniversary of the National Health Service (NHS) and Windrush at ourAnnual General Meeting (AGM) and Annual Members’ Meeting (AMM) on Thursday 19 July.
As well as updating the audience on our achievements and progress over the last year, the event formed part of our celebrations to mark the start of the NHS in 1948, which have included Big 7Tea parties, sporting events, ballroom dancing and Family Fun Days.
1948 was also the year that saw the arrival of the Empire Windrush in the UK, which carried 492 passengers from the West Indies. Many passengers were among the first to go and work in the newly formed NHS. The Trust’s Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) staff network performed a powerful Windrush monologue to a packed Uffculme Centre in Moseley, giving a valuable insight into this historic event.
Sue Davis, Chair of Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust said: “Our BAME network colleagues gave an emotive, empowering presentation, highlighting the important role the Windrush passengers played in the newly formed NHS. It really brought their experiences to life.
“In another first this year, we have introduced live streaming as it is not always possible for our staff, and service users who receive their care across our inpatient units, to join us at our AGM and AMM. The live streaming has assisted them in being involved in this annual event.”
Delegates at the event were treated to a tea party, enjoyed visiting interactive stalls and workshops featuring memories of the NHS and BSMHFT, NHS careers across the decades, the work of volunteers and apprentices, research and innovation and the opportunity to try Tai Chi to aid their wellbeing.
The AGM was opened by the Windrush monologue followed by the formal AGM presentations, including film and animation, which outlined the Trust’s achievements over the past 12 months and explained their ambitions for the future. This year’s event was closed by an uplifting performance from the Wellbeing Community Choir.
John Short, Chief Executive of the Trust said: “Our Annual General Meeting has been a positive and enlightening event. It has been great to see so many staff, service users, carers and stakeholders come together to help us celebrate the 70th anniversary of the NHS and Windrush and to hear about our achievements and future plans.”
To view a recording of this year’s AGM or to download a copy of our Annual Report and Accounts, please click here.
