Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with NHS officials in England about improving (1) the catering; and (2) the rest facilities for NHS staff in hospital settings.

Through the Report of the Independent Review of NHS Hospital Food, officials have had, and continue to have, discussions in relation to improving catering and rest facilities for National Health Service staff in NHS hospital settings.

The NHS Food and Drink Standards contain detailed information for catering managers about sourcing and serving high quality, nutritious food to patients and staff. This includes a checklist for catering managers and chief executives to consider as part of their trust’s Food and Drink Strategy.

Good physical working environments are also important for staff wellbeing and retention. Staff need to be given the time and space to rest and recover from their work, particularly when working on-call or overnight. The NHS Health and Wellbeing Framework highlights the importance of getting the basics right, such as providing access to good quality rest areas, food, and drink options.