We are calling on the North Bristol NHS Trust to allow the Union Flag to be flown permanently and prominently at Southmead Hospital. We believe our national flag is a symbol of unity, pride, and the very taxpayers who fund our National Health Service

Why this is important:

Recently, the group ‘Bristol Rises’ raised Union Flags at Southmead Hospital to celebrate our national identity and the institution of the NHS. While the gesture received overwhelming support from the public and praise from many frontline staff members, the flags were removed by hospital authorities within just a few hours.

Since the removal, numerous staff members and residents have reached out to express their deep disappointment. For many, the Union Flag represents the collective contribution of the British public. The NHS is a national treasure, funded by the hard-working people of this country through National Insurance and taxation. It is only right that the flag of our nation is displayed at such a vital public institution.

Furthermore, many have raised concerns regarding consistency and fairness in the hospital’s flagging policy. While other flags—such as the Pride flag—have been displayed prominently and without issue, the Union Flag has been noticeably absent. We believe that if the hospital is a space for diverse expression, there must also be a permanent place for the flag that represents us all, regardless of background.

Our Request:

We ask the Southmead Hospital management to:

1. Reinstall the Union Flag in a prominent position on the hospital grounds.

2. Commit to flying the flag permanently, acknowledging it as a symbol of the public who fund and rely on the NHS.

3. Ensure a fair and consistent policy regarding the display of flags on hospital property.

The Union Flag is not a symbol of division; it is a symbol of the country that built and continues to sustain the NHS. Let’s bring it back to Southmead.

Sign this petition to show your support for our national flag at our local hospital.