Did Newtown help establish the NHS?

Was Newtown the birthplace of the NHS? That's what Newtown Town Council have been told.

Services provided at the town's hospital in the 1940s have been identified as one reason Aneurin Bevan formed the NHS.

The town council received a presentation recently where they were told the town was effectively the birthplace.

In a stateemnt the town council said: "The presentation to your town council paid tribute to the town’s pivotal influential role in shaping a healthcare system that has become a cornerstone of the United Kingdom’s public services."

It added: "Emma Snow, author of 'THE FIRST NHS', told the story Newtown's connection to the origins of the NHS under the visionary leadership of Aneurin Bevan, who launched the NHS in 1948

"Bevan’s idea of free healthcare for all at the point of delivery was inspired by the community-driven welfare systems in the region. Town councillors hear about the Welsh National Memorial Association (WNMA) which had its' headquarters at Newtown hospital.

"Two of the three founders of WNMA were Newtonians – John Tomley and David Davies MP (the first Lord Davies). It was the first national health service pilot in the UK for TB in Wales and contributed to the UK Government’s Welsh TB Enquiry in 1948, and from there influenced the Beverage Report leading top the founding of the NHS.  This little know story places Newtown at the birth of the achievement."

During the presentation, Ms Snow emphasised the enduring legacy Newtown in the NHS, stating: "Newtown holds a unique place in our nation’s history. It’s not just the birthplace of a revolutionary idea, but also a reminder of the power of community and shared vision. Today, we celebrate the values of compassion and equality that remain at the core of the NHS."

The council resolved to support Ms Snow's work to establish a heritage plaque and host events to mark the significance of Newtown being the birthplace of “The First NHS”. 

Town councillors were asked to consider their views on future of the former Welsh National Memorial Association building at Newtown Hospital, and any other ideas to support Ms Snow’s venture, for discussion at the next council meeting in November.