Patients admitted to our A&E departments are now given hot meals twice a day, whilst waiting for their care. 

We started back in January, traditionally our busiest time, and the start of winter, when many vulnerable patients are in need of a hot meal. The new initiative also responds to feedback from the last National Patient Survey, which asked for “more substantial food”, replacing typical meals like sandwiches.

Priority is given to those with an extended wait in both A&Es and it also supports our priorities around hydration and nutrition.

Matron, Chloe Gough, said: “Working collaboratively with catering services to provide this excellent service to our patients has been a huge success and positive step to improving our patient experience.

"And recognising and addressing nutrition and hydration needs at the very front door of CHFT not only improves patient outcomes, but is testament to our dedication to our patients' needs and experience.

"It has been wonderful to watch patients, who for a variety of reasons can have an unexpected long wait in the emergency department, receive a hot meal.”

Housekeeper, Ania Widowski, is pictured below with one of the hot meal trolleys.