Clap for carers: NHS celebrates 72nd anniversary after most challenging year in history

The UK clapped once again on the NHS' 72nd anniversary as a way of saying thank you all its staff who have worked throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

The initiative follows the success of the weekly Clap for Carers, and it is hoped the applause will become an annual tradition.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson will meet NHS workers in the Number 10 garden on Sunday afternoon, while public buildings including the Royal Albert Hall, Blackpool Tower and the Shard have been lit up blue in tribute to the health service.

On Saturday, people observed a minute’s silent and lit candles in remembrance of those who have died during the coronavirus pandemic.

The nationwide clap has been organised following a letter from the Together coalition, in which influential figures including NHS chief executive Sir Simon Stevens and the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby voiced their support for making July 5 an official day of commemoration.

Sharing a photo of himself clapping for the 5pm round of applause, Health Secretary Matt Hancock tweeted: “Fantastic to come together on the NHS’s 72nd birthday to once again clap for all our carers.

“Thank you all for everything you do.”

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer was joined by his neighbours as he took part in a nationwide applause to mark the 72nd anniversary of the NHS.

Sir Keir stood outside his home in Kentish Town, north London, and clapped with several others living nearby at 5pm on Sunday.

People across the UK had been encouraged to take part in the applause as a way of saying thank you to NHS staff who have worked throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

The initiative follows the success of the weekly Clap for Carers, and it is hoped the applause will become an annual tradition.

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