The remarkable story of how Leicester’s hospitals continued to care for patients during the Second World War is being told through a new exhibition at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust’s (UHL) Creative Health and Heritage Centre.
‘Leicester Hospitals during the Second World War’ features artefacts from UHL’s museum collection alongside items on loan, helping to recreate the experience of hospital life during the 1940s.
Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the challenges faced by patients and healthcare staff during the war, and how hospitals adapted to meet the needs of their communities.
The exhibition also showcases the Creative Health and Heritage Centre’s poppy cascade, created by volunteers and members of the local community, including the Leicestershire Nurses League, as a tribute to those who served and sacrificed during times of conflict.
Sallie Varnam, Creative Health and Heritage Senior Project Manager at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL), said: “This exhibition offers a fascinating insight into the history of our hospitals and the experiences of the patients and staff who lived and worked through the challenges of the Second World War.
“The objects and stories on display help bring this important period in our history to life, while the poppy cascade provides a beautiful focal point for reflection and remembrance. We are incredibly grateful to our volunteers, community groups and partners who have helped make this exhibition possible, and we look forward to welcoming visitors throughout November.”
The exhibition is open every weekday throughout November from 12:30pm to 4pm and is free to visit and is located behind the Mansion House at the Glenfield Hospital.
On Remembrance Day, the Creative Health and Heritage Centre will open from 10am, welcoming visitors attending the Remembrance Day service at the Secret Garden to explore the exhibition afterwards and enjoy refreshments with volunteers.
UHL’s Remembrance Day service will take place at the Secret Garden at the Glenfield Hospital on Wednesday 11 November at 10:30am. Thes service will bring colleagues, patients and visitors together to pay their respects and reflect on the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces community.