Our centenary year - 1921-2021

How it all started

Having served the local community for over a century, the hospital has continued to evolve and develop throughout its existence. Today’s hospital site was first established in 1842 when the Union workhouse was built to serve the “poor” of Edmonton, Enfield and Hornsey.

Fast forward to 1909, a number of the hospital’s buildings were built on the present day site and a year later, the Edmonton Infirmary was created. Under Dr Spencer, the first medical officer and first matron, Annie Dowbiggin, the hospital consisted of 12 wards – each with 28 beds – and two ambulances. This building still remains and is now the trusts’ headquarters. Along with the eight story tower which was built in 1968, both buildings have played a significant role in the hospital’s history.

11 years later in 1921, the infirmary became North Middlesex Hospital and expanded further with the introduction of the NHS in 1948. Since then, the hospital has continued to invest in various projects which has enabled the Trust to strengthen its services and continue to provide outstanding care to the local community.

In the limelight

The Trust has also had its’ fair share of limelight during the 60’s. The outpatients building was opened by HRH Princess Margaret and the famous TV soap ‘Emergency Ward’ was filmed at the hospital. In addition to this, soon after we entered a new millennium, the hospital was recognised for the high quality of education and training it provided for trainee doctors and nurses.

Major developments

As one of the UK’s most diverse communities with over 90 nationalities  and a growing younger population, North Middlesex University Hospital is more than ‘just’ a provider of healthcare services. With such an imperative role in the community, the Trust has continued to improve its services and invest in developments which not only deliver on its’ commitments to staff and local people at present but also build a legacy for generations to come. In 2009, the hospital’s biggest development project generated a new main hospital building with a brand new A&E department, critical care unit, outpatients department, image centre, eight operating theatres and five inpatient wards. However, renovations continued four years later with a further £80 million investment in 2013. As part of the local NHS reorganisation, the medical, surgical, stroke and children’s services which are located in the hospital’s tower were modernised. A brand new neonatal unit and maternity ward which is among the best maternity units in the country was also built. Not only did this enable the hospital to maximise the quality and quantity of care it provides but also grow its workforce.

A new meaning of community

Whilst the local community has always been at the forefront of the work the hospital does, 2020 saw a year that no one could have predicted. Known as the ‘unprecedented year’, the community spirit during this period saw staff, patients, families, local businesses and partners come together and fight against the Coronavirus pandemic. With our wonderful staff working tirelessly and caring for patients under immense pressure and local residents showing their thanks and gratitude through their kind donations and support, the Trust witnessed the true meaning of community.

As we continue to emerge from the pandemic and start to see the light at the end of the tunnel, the Trust is one of the many hospitals to join the Government’s vaccination rollout scheme. Whilst it is a significant milestone in the fight against the virus across the country, it is also another proud moment for the hospital as it continues to overcome one of its biggest challenges to date.

Looking forward

As one of London’s busiest acute hospitals, serving more than 350,000 people across a number of boroughs, the Trust has developed and adapted it's services throughout. With their vision and values firmly placed at the core of all decision making, the Trust will continue to ensure the level of care provided consistently grows and exceeds local needs.

Want to be part of our centenary celebrations?

We would love to hear your stories about your connection to North Mid. If you've got a story to share, get it in touch with the communications team on northmid.comms@nhs.net.