We have been shortlisted for Project of the Year in Health Estates and Facilities Management Association  (HEFMA) awards for improving our patients' food.

We been recognised for a scheme backed by Prince Charles who is Patron of the Soil Association aimed at improving food and nutrition in hospitals.

We were one of the first trusts in the country to sign up to the optional Commissioning for Quality and Innovation 295 (CQUIN)  back in 2014 which focussed on improving patient food and nutrition. 

Over the years we have introduced: better sandwich selections; fresh salads, finger snack packs for elderly patients who need to eat little and often and introduced homemade soups.

Around 400 patients a month were surveyed to test out the changes and we received excellent feedback as a result of the changes.

CHFT set up a dedicated a project team to begin working in partnership with the Food for Life charity, CCGs, Calderdale and Kirklees Public Health, and ISS (our service partners at CRH) and NHS Catering Managers.

A steering group made up of a Director, Facilities Manager, Facilities Matron, CCGs, Public Health, Food for Life and Healthwatch meet quarterly to oversee and support the project team.  The Project Team consisted of Facilities Managers, FM Matron, ISS Team, Dietetics and both in-house and ISS Catering Teams who managed the project from the early inception through its evolving stages to the significant success it has become today.   

The initial priority was to “measure and improve patient food experience” which was supported by Kirklees Healthwatch who surveyed in-patients across the Trust and provided an invaluable insight into what our patients thought about our meals and their experience.

The awards will be announced at the HEFMA leadership Forum and includes talks from TV Doctor Dr Xand Van Tulken and Chief Executive of Ipswich and Colchester Hospitals Nick Hulme.

The event which will be held on 11th and 12th May in Harrogate.