8th September, 2024
999 Day: National Tribute to Emergency Services Heroes
The UK unites in gratitude for Emergency Services Day, also known as 999 Day.
This national day, which takes place on 9th September each year, honours the almost 2 million people including 250,000 first responders who tirelessly work and volunteer across the NHS, police, fire, ambulance, and search and rescue services.
999 Day not only serves as a platform to enable the country to show its support for those who serve, but also aims to increase public understanding of how to use the emergency services efficiently and responsibly. It highlights the diverse career and volunteer opportunities available, while also promoting the work of emergency services charities.
Emergency Services Day has been supported since its inception by His Majesty The King, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, and the Governments of the UK, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, alongside all emergency services.
999 Day formally begins at 9am with the raising of 999 Day flags nationwide, followed by a poignant two minutes’ silence to commemorate the over 7,500 emergency services personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Founded by police officer Tom Scholes-Fogg in 2016, 999 Day was established in response to the absence of a national day dedicated to honouring the millions of people who have served in the NHS and emergency services.
Leading tributes on 999 Day, the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, said: “The staff and volunteers who make up our emergency services are the backbone of our communities, putting their lives ahead of others day in, day out to keep all of us safe.
“Their hard work, community spirit, and sacrifice must never be forgotten, and I share the entire country’s gratitude for their work.”
The First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney, said: “On Emergency Services Day, we recognise the dedicated work of all working in our NHS, police, fire and rescue, ambulance, coastguard and mountain rescue services.
“Each of them works to support and help all of us, no matter who we are, where we are, or what the circumstances. I want to express my heartfelt thanks to every individual serving, or volunteering, in our emergency services today.
“Also in my thoughts are the many more, serving around the world – picking up the pieces of increasing global conflict, and climate-related natural disasters – acting as a hope and a lifeline to millions.
“The people of Scotland, and my Government, will never take that service for granted.”
The First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, said: “We are forever grateful for your commitment to putting the lives of strangers before your own to help keep our communities safe and improve their chances of a positive outcome when seriously ill or injured.
“999 Day is the prime opportunity to take a moment to celebrate our incredible emergency services workers and recognise the vital role they play in going beyond the call of duty every day.
“For being there for people at their darkest times when they need your help, and for the huge contribution you make to society, diolch o galon.”
Emergency Services Day’s Founder, Tom Scholes-Fogg, said: “On Emergency Services Day, let us honour those who serve. From the 250,000 first responders who run into danger and risk their lives each day to protect our communities, to the more than 1.5 million people serving in other roles and behind the scenes. Their unwavering commitment and selfless service make a profound difference in our lives and for that our nation is immensely grateful.”
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