Challenging the way patients eat in south Staffordshire

Published by Emma Hemmings for HCL Marketing Communications in Health and also in Communities

Staff, patients and visitors to community hospitals in south Staffordshire are being encouraged to eat more healthily and think about where their food is from.

South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust (PCT) Provider Services is leading the way by introducing information boards about food available and served at restaurants at Samuel Johnson Hospital in Lichfield and Sir Robert Peel Hospital in Tamworth.

Month by month there will be a seasonal recipe using British produce when it is at its best and in season. These will be quick, easy, healthy recipes for soup, desserts, snack or main courses.

Government information on health eating and nutrition will be available such as how to reduce saturated fat, salt and sugar intake.

Jackie Holt, Facilities and Estates Manager, said: “The restaurants will also be introducing Fair Trade Products and offering information about the benefits to co-operative farmers around the world whenever we as an NHS organisation or as individuals purchase items such as tea, coffee and fruit from a register Fair Trade producer.

“Organic products and producers will also be highlighted, including details of where they can be bought and the benefits for the local economy.”

References will be made to the Assured Food Standards (AFS) which is the independent organisation set up to manage, develop and promote the Red Tractor as a safe, quality , affordable food that public can trust.

The boards will be updated regularly with new information, recipes and details of local Farmers Markets and staff, patients and visitors are invited to take a look. People can also offer suggestions and comments for future items to be included about ways to help staff, patients and visitors achieve a healthier lifestyle and support sustainable produce.