Nurse 'feels blessed' after 40 years' NHS service

7 July 2024

By Gina Millson, BBC Radio Lancashire

Mary Farnworth started out as a nurse at 18

BBC Mary Farnworth smiling wearing an orange scarf and black and white striped shirt — Mary Farnworth started out as a nurse at 18

A long-serving nurse has been reflecting on more than 40 years in the NHS after receiving a long service award.

Mary Farnworth, from Grimsargh, Lancashire, first joined in November 1977 aged just 18, at the Preston Royal Infirmary.

The 65-year-old has racked up 41 years of service as a nurse after initially going to art college.

"I have been blessed to work with the best staff," she said.

Mary Farnworth says she became a nurse as she wanted to do something working with people

Family photograph Mary Farnworth as a young nurse — Mary Farnworth says she became a nurse as she wanted to do something working with people

She started her career at the Preston Royal Infirmary before transferring to the Royal Preston Hospital after it closed in 1990.

Ms Farnworth believes nursing has changed massively over the years, especially when it comes to the qualifications needed.

"Entry level qualifications have changed and that is a concern," she told BBC Radio Lancashire.

"People need A-levels and it's a three year degree course, which is fantastic if you can do that, but I just feel it can put people off.

"I feel that the NHS is missing out on some very kind empathetic people."

Ms Farnworth said she always wanted to be a nurse.

"I really don't know why, I just wanted to do something working with people, I've always loved people," she said.

"I actually went to art college before I started training at Preston Royal Infirmary, the discipline was paramount and work ethic was drummed into you, and I've carried that for over 40 years."

Mary Farnworth was proud to receive her NHS long service award

Mary Farnworth NHS long service award badge for 40 years' service — Mary Farnworth was proud to receive her NHS long service award

Ms Farnworth was initially offered a job in theatre at Sharoe Green Hospital, but realised early in her career that she wanted to work in mental health.

After a long career at the Royal Preston Hospital, she spent three years at the University of Central Lancashire in Preston as an advisor, but had to retire following an accident at home where she broke her back in 2021.

When reflecting on her own career she said: "I have been blessed to work with the best staff.

"I do miss it, but I finished at the right time."

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