Hospital turns around poor food hygiene rating

Following an inspection in March, the catering premises at the hospital was awarded a score of 1 out 5, the second lowest score possible, and was told major improvement was necessary.

However, following a summer of action the Burnley General Hospital restaurant, operated by East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust, has been awarded a four-star rating after their latest inspection, which is the second highest rating possible.

Susan Chapman, head of facilities at the Trust, said: “We would like to assure patients, visitors and staff the Trust takes the issue of food hygiene and quality very seriously.

“This month’s inspection of the catering department and restaurant at Burnley General Hospital has confirmed our facilities are well managed, well maintained and safe for everyone.”

After the inspection earlier this year, the summer months have seen a major plan to improve the hospital’s catering service, including an upgrade to the kitchen area, and designing a new menu which meets the dietary needs of patients.

“The hospital has modern catering facilities,” added Susan. “These are designed to meet high standards of cleanliness, to ensure the hygienic preparation of food.

“We also have a robust system of monitoring and checking that meals meet top safety standards.”

Here’s a reminder of how others fared in the food hygiene ratings published earelier this year