Members of the public who would like to show their gratitude to NHS staff who have cared for a loved one are being invited to a special thanksgiving service at Gloucester Cathedral.

NHS organisations across Gloucestershire have linked up to stage the event at Gloucester Cathedral on Wednesday 21st October at 5.30pm.

The service, to be dedicated to all NHS staff (both clinical and non-clinical) past or present, is free and open to the public. Members of all faiths are also welcome.

Readings will be made by staff on behalf of NHS organisations in the county and a poem, written by Clinical Psychologist Andrew Champion, will also be read out as part of the service.

Reverend Mark Read, Lead Chaplain at Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The NHS does remarkable things and contributes enormously to the health and wellbeing of the people of this county. This service is an opportunity to recognise those contributions from hardworking staff.”

Professor Clair Chilvers, Chair of Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The pace of life today means that we often don’t get the opportunity to stop, reflect and say thank you to those who’ve supported our loved ones in such a caring way in their time of need. This service is an opportunity for you to join us in a united way to show your support.”

Dr Andy Seymour, Deputy Clinical Chair of Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “The NHS touches the lives of everyone at some point. What shapes this experience is the staff that care for and look after our loved ones.”

Ingrid Barker, Chair of Gloucestershire Care Services NHS Trust, said: “This is an opportunity to show your appreciation for the hard work, commitment and professionalism of our NHS colleagues whether it be in general practice, at home or in a hospital.”

Ruth FitzJohn, Chair of 2Gether NHS Foundation Trust and Deputy Lieutenant of Gloucestershire, said: “We seldom get the opportunity to show our appreciation for NHS staff in such a collective way. If you want to say ‘thank you’ then do come and join us for this special service.”

Anyone wishing to attend is advised to be at Gloucester Cathedral for 5.15pm for 5.30pm start.