Life After the NHS: Join the Trafford NHS Retirement Fellowship and Thrive in Retirement

Retirement doesn’t mean slowing down—it’s the start of a whole new chapter. And for retired NHS and social care staff in Trafford, that chapter can be filled with connection, fun, and friendship through the NHS Retirement Fellowship (NHSRF).

The NHSRF is a national charity supporting retired NHS and social care professionals, offering social, leisure, and educational activities. Back in 2022, Trafford—famously the birthplace of the NHS—still didn’t have its own branch. That changed after NHSRF hosted a reunion locally, drawing over 100 retired staff. From that inspiring event, the Trafford Branch was born.

Led by a passionate team of former NHS professionals—Theatre Scrub Nurse Hugh McQuaid (Chair), HR Manager Hazel Dowell (Secretary), and A&E Nurse Nicky McQuaid (Treasurer)—the group has gone from strength to strength.

Now meeting monthly at the Macmillan Centre at Trafford General Hospital, the branch has grown to over 20 members. Together, they enjoy guest speakers from local services like the Dogs Trust and Fire & Rescue, social chats over tea and cake, and a wide variety of outings and activities. It’s a warm and welcoming group built on shared experiences and a continued love for community.

If you’re retired from the NHS or social care and live in the Trafford area, this could be exactly what you’re looking for. Annual membership is just £30, and new members are always welcome.

📞 To find out more, contact Hugh McQuaid on 07941 493137.

While retirement marks the end of a busy working life, it’s also an opportunity to refocus, revive old passions, or even discover new ones. Good preparation is key—not just financially, but socially and emotionally too.

It’s common to ask:
– What will I do with my time?
– Who will I spend it with?
– What gives me purpose now?

That’s why communities like the NHS Retirement Fellowship matter so much—they fill the space with companionship, laughter, and shared purpose.

And if you’re just starting to plan your retirement or adjusting to the early days of it, our WOW Guide (Live Well Your Way) can help. It’s packed with local information to help you explore everything from fitness classes, craft clubs, walking groups and lunch clubs, to ways to volunteer or rediscover a long-lost hobby.

Let this next phase of life be about joy, growth, and wellbeing—your way.

Check out the Live Well Your Way WOW Guide in our latest magazine or browse the digital version for local clubs, events, and support networks designed with you in mind.