Rankin unveils powerful portrait series of frontline staff to mark NHS anniversary

In a mark of respect and thanks to the NHS, Rankin, who has previously shot the Rolling Stones, Kate Moss and the Queen, offered to take portraits of 12 people playing a vital role in fighting the virus. The collection will be showcased across the country at bus stops, roadside billboards and iconic pedestrian areas including the world-famous Piccadilly Lights in central London this week.

"As the coronavirus pandemic began to unfold, I was moved by the incredible efforts of people across the NHS, and I wanted to document who they are and their role in fighting this disease. Taking a portrait is a unique and intimate experience, even with social distancing in place. Everyone had their own inspiring story, which to them was just doing their job. I hope these images portray the resilience and courage they show every day in the face of real adversity."

Those photographed include an ICU consultant, a Covid-19 critical care nurse, a midwife, a psychiatrist, a hospital porter, a COVID-19 ward cleaner, a paramedic, a GP, a pharmacist, a district nurse, a 111 call centre worker, and a Chief Information Officer. All have played a vital role in managing the response to the disease.

Sir Simon Stevens, NHS Chief Executive, said: "This has been the most challenging year in the NHS's history, with our amazing staff providing care to almost 100,000 hospitalised Covid patients, and many more in the community. Nurses, doctors, physios, pharmacists, cleaners and countless others have pulled together, bolstered by thousands of former NHS staff who came back to help, alongside a new generation of students who stepped up.

"As we approach the NHS's anniversary, these striking portraits pay tribute to all NHS staff and their extraordinary dedication. On 5 July we also want to say thank you to those from all walks of life who have played their part in helping the NHS and our communities deal with this unprecedented health emergency."

Alongside each portrait, NHS staff have shared their personal stories from the frontline, providing a unique and touching insight into the lives of the people who are battling this pandemic and saving lives. Emma Kelly, a critical care nurse at the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, said: "At first, I thought it must be the wrong Emma as I feel like I'm just doing the job I've been trained to do. While we all want to care for and support our patients – it is lovely to be recognised in this way and to be able to share our stories with the world."

Dr Farzana Hussain, a GP at Project Surgery, Newham, said: "It's difficult to put into words how privileged I feel to be able to go to work every day and make a difference to people's lives and to help battle this global pandemic. Now more than ever, it's important that we see the humanity that makes up our GP practices, community services and hospitals. Every member of staff has their own story, fears and hopes for the future. I think Rankin's photography brings this out really well."

Rankin is donating all portraits to the NHS as an ongoing legacy for years to come. Advertising space to display the portraits has also been donated free of charge. The full selection of portraits and their stories can be found at www.england.nhs.uk/rankin.