St Margaret's Hospital Epping,Silver Assistant Nurse's Medal

A rare Assistant Nurse's medal issued by Essex County Council for training at St Margaret's Hospital Epping during World War 2.
Trained Nursing shortages during the 1930s and into the war had led to calls for a shortened form of Training for Assistant Nurses.Some authorities including Essex County Council had decided to pilot such schemes which predated the Nurses Act of 1945 that eventually introduced the State Enrolled Assistant Nurse.As this medal was produced in 1947 I can only assume it was awarded retrospectively to recognise the earlier training.
This silver medal features the Essex crest of a shield with three Seaxes.The reverse is named to Gladys Prior 31st March 1942.It carries London hallmarks for JP(John Pinches) year letter 1947.
An Interesting piece that merits further research.Height to suspension ring 34mm.

Code: 50947