Thousands of nurses received free ice creams across Central London for International Nurses Day
Harley Street BID launched a special thank-you campaign across some of the capital’s leading hospitals and healthcare organisations
On the birthday of Florence Nightingale, a Harley Street BID ice cream van visited 12 hospitals and clinics across the internationally recognised Harley Street Health District, handing out complimentary ice creams to nurses throughout the day.
The initiative distributed thousands of ice creams in recognition of the dedication and hard work shown by nurses caring for patients across London. Healthcare staff simply needed to show a valid NHS or hospital ID to claim their free treat.The campaign came at a time when healthcare workers continued to face increasing pressures across the sector, with the BID aiming to provide a small moment of appreciation to frontline staff.
Nicki Palmer, BID Director at the Harley Street BID, said: “We are incredibly proud to have so many world-leading hospitals and healthcare organisations within our district. International Nurses Day is an important opportunity to recognise the extraordinary contribution nurses make every day.“We hoped this brought a smile to healthcare workers who spend their lives caring for others. Nurses are at the heart of our healthcare system and deserve to be celebrated.”
The ice cream van visited healthcare destinations including:
• Mayo Clinic
• Cleveland Clinic London
• The London Clinic
• Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
• University College Hospital
• The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust
• Fortius Clinic
• OneWelbeck
• Phoenix Hospital Group
• Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust
• HCA Healthcare UK
• King Edward VII’s Hospital
Sofia Oliveira, Sister at the Digestive Disorders Unit at The London Clinic and a Florence Nightingale Fellow, said: “International Nurses Day is an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a nurse and the impact we have on patients every day. This year’s theme, ‘Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives,’ highlights the importance of continuing to support and develop nurses, which directly impacts the quality of care we provide. It’s a moment to feel proud of the profession and remember why we chose nursing in the first place.”
The activation formed part of the Harley Street BID’s wider programme supporting businesses, healthcare organisations and the local community across the district.The BID works with levy payers, local authorities and partners to improve security, enhance the public realm, support wellbeing initiatives and create opportunities for businesses and healthcare organisations to connect and thrive.