Imagine having to prepare and deliver 1000 meals, three times per day, every day.  This is what our amazing catering staff do for our patients and they are now providing this service in a new offsite facility, Bridge House which was formally opened on 20 October…

The former kitchen facilities, located on level 2 of the main hospital, were part of the original building in the 1980s and in need of repair and modernisation. Bridge House was identified as a suitable location, due to its proximity to the hospital with various transport routes and space.

The upper floor of the new facility provides better office accommodation, seminar areas and wellbeing rooms for staff, which was not previously available to them. The lower floor is dedicated to the preparation and storage of food and new electric appliances have been provided to fulfil the Trusts Net Zero Carbon strategy.

Vacating the space on level 2 of the main hospital, has freed up space for the construction of new Orthopaedic theatres which will help improve theatre waiting times at the trust and is due to open February 2024.

Ann James, Chief Executive, who helped open Bridge House last week, said to the teams: “We appreciate the major shift for you all in terms of location, but we want you to know that you are an essential part of our team, and you make a difference to literally thousands of people every year. Now you have nicer accommodation which is brilliant”. Catering Operations Manager, Shaun Williamson said: “The new facility is very fresh and ideal for the colleagues that work here. I want to thank the catering team for their commitment, flexibility, and ongoing support. I also want to thank the housekeeping and porter teams for their continuous support”.