Since its inception 75 years ago today, the NHS has been part of the fabric of the nation and for many, a fundamental part of what it means to be British.

But, as we celebrate, and politicians everywhere jump on the conversational bandwagon, it’s worth remembering what really makes this incredible institution tick. It’s certainly not those politicians, who seem addicted to short-termism and eye-catching initiatives.

It’s the staff, whose dedication and compassion should never be drowned out by the constant political noise, whether it be clapping and banging pots and pans during Covid or the loud pledges made by all sides every election time.

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And what they are telling us is pretty simple – we love the NHS but it might not live to be 100 unless some proper love and care is lavished on it.

Their feeling of sadness about the state of the service is palpable and we ignore it at our peril.

It’s an institution that boasts it cares for everyone the same, whether you live on the street or a palace, but when the candles on the birthday cake are blown out, it could do more to care for its own staff.