When I was pre-school age (ie pre 1955) me and my sis were encouraged to drink 'Welfare Orange' several times a week. Not sure if one had to pay for it, but it was provided by the Gov for young children due to the lack of fruit available generally and especially in Winter due to the war, to prevent us all getting rickets through lack of Vit C. I used to accompany mom to collect it when we needed a new bottle - always on a Tuesday since 'the Welfare' office was more or less opposite the fishmongers, and Tuesday was fish day at our house !
She always had to take both our NHS cards with her, to prove entitlement. These were all kept in a certain place in one of the cupboards in our living room, so were a familiar sight. Buff single fold cards, with everything handwritten in copperplate in blue/black ink. Don't recall what was printed on the inside or back other than the obvious headings for name, number etc. Our cards were handed over to us when we each got married, as you needed your NHS number to register with your new doctor, or at least, it made it easier for them. I know my old number was 'MOSK' and some numbers - I've always been able to remember the first bit, as you can say it ! LOL
It never appeared on any NHS correspondence until comparatively recently, but now it's on virtually every letter one receives from either hospitals or the doctor's surgery. But - I haven't the slightest idea what mine is and would have to grab a hospital appointment letter (which, just like my ma, are all kept in a certain place in my living room!) if I needed it!
