Worcester's Guildhall to be lit up in blue to celebrate nurses

This year's event has extra significance given the impact the pandemic has had on nursing, and healthcare staff around the world.

Michelle Greatorex director of nursing and quality at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust said: “This year, more than ever it’s important to recognise the diverse and evolving role that nurses play.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it new and unparalleled challenges, that our nurses have taken in their stride.

"They have changed and adapted ways of working overnight, putting the health and wellbeing of their patients and colleagues ahead of their own fears and anxieties.”

“I have been humbled by the compassion and dedication of our nurses, and I invite everyone to pause and reflect on the vital role they play in caring for patients in hospitals and communities across Herefordshire and Worcestershire”.

Hereford Cathedral is also being lit up in blue for the day.

International Nurses Day is celebrated on May 12 each year, the anniversary of the birth of nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale.

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, the main providers of mental health services in the county, is inviting people to get involved by taking photos of the buildings and sharing them across social media with the hashtag #ThankYouHWNurses.

Those unable to visit the sites can still get involved by lighting a candle or shining a light at home to mark the day.