Our Catering operation based at the University Hospital of North Tees has been awarded a 5* food safety rating by the national Food Standards Agency (FSA) – the highest rating possible.
This certification covers all of the food served to patients, colleagues and visitors at the various public catering outlets at the hospital, as well as food served on wards. All national catering establishments are assessed using the FSA’s star rating system, and all public premises that offer food should display their rating certificate.
We are assessed twice a year by our local Environmental Health team, who visit and inspect every area of our catering operations to ensure food safety standards are being followed. This includes conducting various storage and temperature checks, inspecting our catering records to check that appropriate food safety management systems are being implemented correctly, and that all paperwork is documenting what is required, ensuring that we are using approved suppliers and the cleanliness of our premises.
Paul Pattinson, Head of Catering at NTH Solutions, commented: “This is a great achievement for our team, and thoroughly deserved. We have done a lot of work to achieve this rating, and it shows how committed all of our Catering colleagues are across our various teams in maintaining the highest possible standards every day. They do a great job day in and day out, and I’m really proud of everyone for this! Thank you for your dedication and commitment.”
Meanwhile, to coincide with Nutrition and Hydration Week, we have just unveiled some new additions to our Deli Menu at the Tees Restaurant at North Tees hospital, packed with fresh and tasty options to keep colleagues, visitors and patients fuelled throughout the day. Whether they’re in the mood for a light meal, a hearty sandwich, a warming bowl of soup, or a freshly made omelette, we’ve got something for everyone! Check out the new meatballs and chicken Tikka flatbreads, or why not customise your own flatbread pizza just the way you like it. Looking for something lighter? Try our fresh salads or a jacket potato with a choice of fillings. Whatever you’re craving, our deli has you covered.
Our Catering Team follows nutritional standards by collaborating with Dietitians from North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust to design balanced menus that meet the diverse dietary needs of our colleagues, visitors and patients, and adheres to established guidelines. They focus on using fresh, high-quality ingredients, providing clear allergen labelling, and offering options for special diets like vegetarian or gluten-free. Colleagues are trained in nutrition and meal preparation, and portion sizes are carefully managed to align with nutritional recommendations. Protected meal times are promoted on the wards and regular feedback is gathered from patients, colleagues and visitors to ensure meals are both nutritious and enjoyable. Every day this week the patients on the wards at North Tees hospital are being served a variety of healthy and nutritious treats from milkshakes to fruit baskets.
