We have come a long way since 1866, caring for the sick and their dependents during the last major outbreak of cholera in the poorest parts of London’s East End.
Cholera was a significant public health crisis in London during the 1800s, with multiple outbreaks devastating the city, particularly affecting its poorest areas. The disease, caused by contaminated water, spread rapidly in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions, leading to severe dehydration and death within hours if untreated. Two Mildmay Deaconesses, trained in nursing, volunteered to go into the Old Nichol, one of the most notorious slums of the nineteenth century, to care for the sick and their dependents.
This early photo from our archives captures the Casualty Department at the first dedicated Mildmay Mission Hospital, opened in 1892, where we provided essential care to the most vulnerable. Our mission was clear then, and it remains unchanged today: to offer compassionate healthcare to those who need it most.
Fast-forward to the present, and Mildmay continues to embody that same dedication, now in a modern hospital setting. We are proud to provide first-class care for individuals facing challenging HIV-related neurological conditions. Our services have expanded to support those who are homeless or recovering from substance misuse, offering hope and healing to some of society's most marginalised members. As part of our commitment to enhancing patient care and addressing evolving healthcare needs, Mildmay is aiming to develop new neurorehabilitation and neuropsychological pathways to support the wider community.
Our dedication extends far beyond London. Since the 1990s, we have impacted communities across East Africa and beyond. Today, we continue to address emerging health challenges, such as the rise of non-communicable diseases and the critical shortage of medical infrastructure in these regions.
Mildmay’s story began in the streets of London’s East End, but today, our reach is far wider. From providing innovative, specialist HIV care in the UK to exploring new partnerships with hospitals and healthcare centres in East Africa, our vision remains the same: to ensure that the most vulnerable receive the healthcare they need, wherever they are.
As we continue to grow and adapt, we remain deeply committed to the values that shaped us -compassion, innovation, and a relentless focus on providing dignified care to those who need it most.
Support our Winter Fundraising Appeal and help us reach our £50,000 goal
All funds raised will go directly towards improving the services and facilities at Mildmay Hospital, helping us provide vital care for some of society's most vulnerable people.
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