John Taylor Hospice has received five stars, the highest possible rating, for food hygiene in a spot inspection by Birmingham City Council.

 

For more than five years running the Erdington-based hospice has received the top rating which is classified by the council as ‘very good’. It was awarded after inspectors visited the hospice in an unannounced visit on 3 July.

 

The Catering Team, Chefs Steve Barfield, Clare Pressick and Tina Dixon, provide fresh food 365 days of the year for patients, their families, staff and other visitors and the hospice cafe.

 

Steve said: “Quality and cleanliness are absolutely paramount in our kitchen and we are delighted that the team has again seen its efforts rewarded with a five star hygiene rating.

 

“We believe in making sure every single meal we create is special and it’s great to see this recognised.”

 

The team creates daily menus but also takes time every day to visit each patient and discuss their individual needs and choices.

 

“Although we have the menu as a start, we aim to give every patient the food they like, are able to eat and will give them the maximum health benefits possible,” said Steve. “At the same time we ensure all of those meals are fresh, made with good quality produce and created in a kitchen which we work really hard to keep super clean.”

 

John Taylor provides specialist care for people living with a terminal illness and their families both at the hospice and in the community. The catering is an essential part of that service.

 

Director of Corporate and Commercial Services Gail Hipkiss said: “A huge well done to the team on receiving the five star rating again. We set the bar for quality and cleanliness very high and it’s good to see this recognised by the council.

 

“We constantly receive lovely comments from people we care for and their families over the quality of the food and the individual attention given by the team so it’s positive to see this backed up by high standards.”

 

For more on John Taylor Hospice and its care for local people see www.johntaylorhospice.org.uk