29 memories of Portsmouth hospitals and staff over the years

By Steve Deeks

Published 25th Feb 2021, 17:50 BST

Updated 14th Aug 2023, 19:50 BST

Some of the images in this collection date back to before the NHS was created. Back then patients had to pay for their health care, although treatment could be available at some charitable voluntary hospitals at the time.

Good healthcare should be available to all, regardless of wealth it was said. On that ideal the NHS was created in 1948, being launched by the then minister for health Aneurin Bevan.

The Mental Health Act was introduced in 1959, making new plans for the care and treatment of people with mental health problems.

MORE: 21 historic images capturing Milton through the years | 12 amazing old images from Farlington's past

Of course it’s a different world today but the care nurses give remains the same.

The caption states it is the Royal Hospital but can anyone remember this view at all?
Photo: Mick Cooper collection

1. Our nurses and hospitals from the past

The caption states it is the Royal Hospital but can anyone remember this view at all? Photo: Mick Cooper collection Photo: The News archive

Babies Born on 1st Jan 1938 at St Mary's Hospital.
Picture: Courtesy of Michael Bailey

2. Our nurses and hospitals from the past

Babies Born on 1st Jan 1938 at St Mary's Hospital. Picture: Courtesy of Michael Bailey Photo: The News archive

Matron De La Court (right of the lady with flowers) at a presentation at the Royal Hospital in Portsmouth circa 1950.

3. Our nurses and hospitals from the past

Matron De La Court (right of the lady with flowers) at a presentation at the Royal Hospital in Portsmouth circa 1950. Photo: The News archive

Haslar Hospital circa 1897. Convalescing sailors with clay pipes

4. Our nurses and hospitals from the past

Haslar Hospital circa 1897. Convalescing sailors with clay pipes Photo: The News archive