Patients with communication difficulties can now use a pictorial menu to order their food at the Countess of Chester Hospital .
The menu, featuring images of the fresh food that is cooked daily on site, has been launched across all wards at the Countess and hospitals in Ellesmere Port .
It means patients who struggle to communicate for whatever reason, will be able to make their own food choices by pointing or voicing what food they want from the images in front of them.
Food First Dietitian Victoria Forrest, who has worked to drive the introduction of the menu alongside the catering department, believes it will make a real difference.
“We know the patients are picking something they like rather than a member of the ward staff having to choose something for a patient because they can’t communicate with them," she said.
"Every ward I gave them to were really positive for a different reason, even ones that I hadn’t considered, which was great to hear.
“It’s exciting to think about just how many types of patients will benefit from it.”
And patients living with dementia can benefit from the way the menu has been designed, with the user-friendly layout, colour scheme and images of relevant animals which can boost recognition and their interest in eating.
The menu, which was designed and printed by Tudor Office Supplies, will also make a huge difference for some stroke patients, while it could help to break down language barriers and educate children about nutrition.
