The website, which is the first web-based history of the NHS in Scotland, will feature the personal accounts of those who have experienced the service, historical background about the birth and development of the NHS in Scotland, and an interactive timeline marking some of the service’s key milestones – ranging from the introduction of the forerunner of the UK NHS, the state-funded, centrally-controlled Highlands and Islands Medical Service in 1913 and the UK’s first successful kidney transplant, which took place at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary in 1960; to more recent achievements such as the introduction of Free Personal Care in Scotland in 2002 and the Smoking ban in 2006. It will go live from Tuesday 10 June and will continue to be updated to include news of events taking place around the country counting down to the actual anniversary on Saturday 5 July. 

Dr Hamish Wilson, chair, NHS 60th anniversary steering group, said the website is about celebrating 60 years of achievement and reminding people what we came from. 

“It is very easy to be critical of what happens in the NHS, and we are used to seeing things in the media when sometimes thing go wrong, but for the vast majority of people, for the vast majority of time the NHS is something to be proud of.” 

He said it is also an opportunity to recognise the contribution of staff and volunteers to the service over the years and a chance to learn from how the NHS has faced the challenges of the past as we look ahead to facing the challenges of the future. 

He continued: “The 60 years have taught us about changing challenges and that the NHS can adapt, can change to meet those challenges. Those aren’t going to go away; they’ll just be different challenges. But the NHS has a superb record in turning things round and meeting those challenges.” 

Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing Nicola Sturgeon said: 

“This is a fascinating story – from the distinctively Scottish contributions to the birth of the National Health Service and the remarkable achievements over the last 60 years. 

“I am sure it will prove a valuable resource for the 60th anniversary celebrations – not just helping people to find out more but directly involving them as patients and staff. 

“It is their stories which constitute the real history of the National Health Service. I want to build on that for the future where the Scottish people and NHS staff become real partners – co-owners of the health service.” 

For more information visit: www.60yearsofnhsscotland.co.uk from Tuesday 10 June.