Healthcare workers at North Staffordshire’s main hospital can now access fresh, nutritious meals no matter what time of the day or night.
Royal Stoke University Hospital, in Stoke-on-Trent, has become the first organisation in the UK to offer a 24/7 automated deli.
Sodexo, the catering partner of University Hospitals of North Midlands (UHNM), has joined forces with unattended retail experts SV365 to introduce the deli which serves dishes including fresh smoothies and soups, a healthy hot meal range, Italian stone-baked pizzas, sweet and savoury baked goods and iced desserts.
UHNM chief executive Tracy Bullock, who officially opened the deli, said: “I am really pleased we are the first organisation to have the 24/7 deli available for patients and staff. The food is of a fantastic quality and caters to everyone’s dietary requirements.
“The 24/7 aspect is vital because we can now guarantee a high quality, hot meal for staff who are working any hour of the day.”
The deli serves allergen-free dishes, healthy choices, vegetarian and vegan options and can be tailored to suit the site population and particular dietary requirements.
It can be found outside the main on-site restaurant and is also available for visitors to use.
Zina Isovic, staff nurse on ward 128, pictured above, said: “I have used the deli several times since it’s been opened.
“I usually use it a night as it’s convenient and has lots of variety. I have literally tried every machine but my favourite is definitely the pizza.”
Hyley Keohane, clinical nurse specialist, said: “It’s really brilliant to have the deli here, especially that it is available 24/7 for staff.
“The food is really tasty, it is good value for money and it’s great it is all contactless too.”
Tim Radcliffe, net zero programme manager at NHS England, said: “I think the concept is fantastic, it is exactly what we need within the NHS.
“It is all about providing nutritionally balanced food for staff 24 hours a day.
“Nobody should be penalised for working outside of core hours, this is why it is so important to have the 24/7 deli here.
“It will give staff the same opportunity as staff working in the day. The idea is fast flowing, free moving, it’s one of the best concepts I have seen.”
