Press Releases

The HCA gives its view on James Martin’s commitment to transform patient food at six NHS hospitals in 2012

The Hospital Caterers Association (HCA) gives its reaction to the commitment made by celebrity chef, James Martin to help transform food at six NHS hospitals during 2012.  James made the announcement at a reception in December 2011 hosted by the Prince of Wales at Clarence House.  The event was held to highlight hospitals which support the Soil Association’s campaign to improve dishes served to patients.  James Martin worked with the catering team at  Scarborough General Hospital to improve patient food there which was the subject of a BBC 1 TV mini series in September 2011.

Janice Gillan, Chair, Hospital Caterers Association (HCA) says: “The previous BBC series featuring James Martin at Scarborough successfully highlighted the limited resources with which many hospital catering managers have to operate.  The Hospital Caterers Association (HCA) is delighted that he has committed to continuing his involvement in 2012 in the provision of catering in actual hospital settings.  The role of celebrity chefs like James Martin ensures that the subject of hospital food and its role as a vital part of patient treatment and care is kept top of mind for the Government and NHS Trusts”.

“The 2011 BBC TV series focused on some serious challenges and significant issues for hospital caterers including the lack of investment in hospital kitchens and the limited food costs that many caterers are working with.  With, however, James stressing the significant contribution good food makes to patient wellbeing and nutritional care, the important underlying message to NHS Trust Boards is that as food is the simplest form of medicine, it should be given far higher priority throughout the health care sector”.  

“James Martin advocates greater use of fresh produce prepared and served as close as possible to service.  Whilst many catering managers would like to use more fresh and locally sourced produce, their hands are tied by either red tape and/or by limited budgets.  It will be interesting to see how James Martin deals with the different issues and challenges facing hospital caterers in the differing settings he will be encountering in his next venture.”

Contact: Hazel Green, National Press Officer - HCA
T: 01932 253184 E: HaGreen7@aol.com
December 2011