You have arrived at this information via a QR code located on one of Rosie’s Plaques situated in Cannock Town Centre.
SI Cannock & District are delighted to recognise the amazing achievements of Ethel Powell, also known as Cannock’s Florence Nightingale
Ethel Powell’s vision and commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility led to the establishment of our hospital in Cannock. Her advocacy for better healthcare facilities reflected her deep concern for the well-being of the local community. Through her leadership and determination, she laid the foundation for a healthcare system that prioritises the needs of our local residents.
She worked to improve conditions for all patients in Cannock from the days of the old Ivy House Cottage Hospital in Wolverhampton Road, Cannock where she provided a lift to enable access to all, to the construction of the new hospital which opened in 1991.
From the mid 1970s Ethel Powell campaigned to help raise £1.5million for medical care in Cannock Chase. In 1977 she and husband John founded the League of Friends – an organisation which has since flourished and expanded tremendously, playing a vital role in providing assistance and resources to individuals requiring medical care to this day.
She devoted herself to getting the best equipment and services for Cannock Chase hospital, nothing was too much for her, nothing but the best was good enough for the people of Cannock. Ethel and her team worked tirelessly dedicating time and effort into raising money for the benefit of Cannock’s patients. She didn’t ‘retire’ until 2010 – when she was 90!!
By acknowledging her achievements and the lasting impact of her work, the community can uphold her values and inspire future generations to prioritise the well-being of others.
Ethel Powell was awarded an MBE for her voluntary services, was the third person to receive the Freedom of the District and was awarded an NHS Lifetime Achievement award.
She has been called an angel; Cannock’s Florence Nightingale, formidable, unstoppable, mover of mountains – she was all of these, and more.
Thanks to her, there is a Hospital in Cannock which was opened in 1991.
Thanks to her, that Hospital has a breast screening unit serving the women of her community.
In honouring Ethel Powell with a Plaque in the town centre, Cannock Chase District Council and Cannock & District Soroptimists celebrate a true community hero whose legacy will forever be ingrained in the fabric of Cannock, Staffordshire. May the plaque serve as a symbol of gratitude, inspiration, and remembrance for Ethel Powell’s enduring contributions to the town and its residents.
Thank you Ethel!!