Healthy eating on the menu for patients

PATIENT nutrition and wellbeing is the focus for a new volunteer scheme at Addenbrooke s Hospital. The potential benefits for patients enjoying a healthy diet on the wards are well-documented - quicker recovery and a shorter stay. Elderly patients requir

PATIENT nutrition and wellbeing is the focus for a new volunteer scheme at Addenbrooke's Hospital.

The potential benefits for patients enjoying a healthy diet on the wards are well-documented - quicker recovery and a shorter stay.

Elderly patients require the most help with nutrition which has prompted the introduction of the Addenbrooke's Mealtime Volunteer Scheme. Members of the public work alongside nutrition assistants to help patients eat and to provide some company.

Voluntary services manager, Suzanne Rigby-Jones, said: "Since September we have had 16 enthusiastic volunteers of different ages and backgrounds who have been working hard to help improve patient nutrition and wellbeing.

"They make a huge difference by chatting to patients, spending time with patients who need assistance to eat and offer an extra pair of hands to staff at a busy time of day."

Volunteers, who also include staff and governors, are given full training before helping on the wards.

If you would like further details about volunteering, call Suzanne Rigby-Jones on (01223) 217356.