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Nursing Special

The team hear moving stories about the history of nursing, from Florence Nightingale to the Falklands War, while Fiona Bruce meets comedian Jo Brand, a former psychiatric nurse.

The Antiques Roadshow team deliver a special episode about nurses, looking at how the profession has changed from the 19th century to the present day.

Filmed on location at the historic St Thomas’ and St Bartholomew’s hospitals in London, the programme features fascinating objects that provide insight into the history of nursing and healthcare, from medals awarded for bravery to early uniforms, cartoons and medical equipment.

Fiona Bruce meets comedian Jo Brand, a former psychiatric nurse, and hears about her experience working in emergency mental health clinics, as well lighter moments performing in hospital pantos.

Fiona also hears the true story of Jennifer Worth, author of Call the Midwife, and finds out how far the much-loved cast of nurses and midwives were drawn from Jennifer’s own experience of nursing.

Militaria expert Mark Smith meets a naval nurse who travelled to the Falklands at short notice on a cruise ship converted to treat wounded troops during the bloody conflict, while Ronnie Archer-Morgan is moved by the story of a nurse who helped pioneer a compassionate approach to community care for Aids patients in the 1980s.

The episode also includes inspiring stories from the Windrush generation of nurses who came from overseas to work in the NHS, and the careers of Betsi Cadwaladr and Mary Seacole – contemporaries of Florence Nightingale – are celebrated.

57 minutes

Music Played

Timings (where shown) are from the start of the programme in hours and minutes

  • 00:33

    Cliff Richard

    So Long

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter Fiona Bruce
Series Editor Robert Murphy
Director Cathy Clarke

Broadcasts

Antiques Roadshow Specials

Episodes exploring anniversaries, world changing events and popular culture.