NHS England in conjunction with DEFRA are conducting research into the penetration of British produce across England's NHS trusts. They are also looking at how the penetration reflects on higher environmental standards.
This study is a first of its kind and will be presented by Phil Shelley, senior operational and policy manager of soft FM at NHS England and a panel of sector specialists will debate its findings and the challenges that lie ahead. The panel, which will be chaired by Tim Radcliffe, will involve:
- Ian Stone, Apetito
- Caron Longden, Soil Association
- Carrie Howes, RD Johns
- Marcel Dueren, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
The retail and vending solutions at Ashford & St Peter's NHS Foundation Trust have received many accolades and awards. The team behind their success will share a case study on how it has been achieved and why it is has received such recognition.
Attendees to the HCA Forum on day two will also hear from Paul Jenkins, associate director of facilities at Royal United Hospitals Bath on ‘how hospital catering should prepare for the next digital revolution’ with specific reference to artificial intelligence.
Milton Keynes patients benefit from a service that is central to how the hospital operates. Chief executive Joe Harrison will share his passion for the catering team and why he sees it as so vital. During the keynote motivational session Aaron Phipps will share his inspiring story with forum delegates.
At 15, Meningitis C and sepsis led to the amputation of both of Aaron's legs below the knee and most fingers. Demonstrating incredible resilience, he recovered and became the first disabled person to climb Kilimanjaro without assistance. His athletic journey reached its peak at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics.
NHS trusts face a number of options when deciding on how best to provide their catering service. During this session, attendees will hear to pro's and con's for different models and how a mixed solution can be the best answer, before opening up to a panel discussion and Q&A.
To book your place at the 2026 HCA Forum, visit here.