Talk

Nurses on the Frontline: A History of Sickle Cell

2 September 2026
6.00-7.30pm
Free to all

Join this online talk exploring the pioneering nurses who initiated and developed specialist services to treat sickle cell an

In the 1950s and 1960s, sickle cell was documented as a 'rare tropical disease’ that was not seen in western countries. But due to migration from British Colonies to the UK, an increasing number of children were born with sickle cell disease. Children and adults' desperate request for relief of the debilitating pain associated with the condition were often ignored, because healthcare professionals did not believe they were in pain or understand the serious nature of the disease. As a result, their care was often poorly managed.

In this online talk, Jenny Bangham and Lola Oni discuss the pioneering nurses who initiated and developed specialist services delivered by sickle cell and thalassaemia counsellors from the late 1970s.

This event is online and open to all.

This listing is supplied by one of our museum partners and is not moderated by Art Fund.

Get a National Art Pass and explore Royal College of Nursing Library and Museum

You'll see more art and your membership will help museums across the UK

National Art Pass offers available at Royal College of Nursing Library and Museum

10% off in café

Expires: 1 Jan 2027

IndividualTiana Clarke Please note this is an example card and not a reflection of the final product

Visitor information

Address

Royal College of Nursing Library and Museum

Royal College Of Nursing, 20 Cavendish Square, London, W1G 0RN
0345 337 3368

Free to all

Opening times

Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat 10am-5pm 

Closed on bank holidays

Closed on Saturdays in August

Visitor information