Southmead Hospital Prepares 8,000 Brussels Sprouts for Christmas Day Meals

Hundreds of hospital personnel will be diligently working to provide some festive cheer to patients who are not at home this year. Approximately 2,000 staff members will be present at Southmead Hospital in Bristol on Christmas Day, including the kitchen team, which has 8,000 Brussels sprouts prepared. Chef Celia Chamberlain stated that regardless of personal preference, “it wouldn’t be Christmas dinner without Brussel Sprouts”. Steve Hams, the chief nursing officer for North Bristol NHS Trust, who is scheduled to oversee the entire hospital on the holiday, expressed that he “really enjoys” working at the hospital during Christmas. He noted, “I work every Christmas day and have done for a number of years, we’re a 365 day a year service so it’s pretty much normal here.” “One of the things I love about Christmas day is the atmosphere is truly special. We try our hardest to get as many patients as we can out before Christmas because home is where they want to be.” He further added, “But when they’re in hospital on Christmas day we make it truly special.” Ms. Chamberlain indicated that the culinary team plans to commence cooking operations early on Christmas Day. She explained, “We’ll start at 6am so everyone gets to spend the afternoon with their families.” “We’ll be doing 2,000 Christmas meals, Christmas lunch and buffet dinner. We’ve all worked for the trust for a long time, you take it in turns and you make the best of it.” “You come in you have a laugh, It’s like your other family really, we spend that much time together.” Michelle Down, a senior sister nurse, is also scheduled to work at the hospital on Christmas Day. She commented, “I think the staff do quite a good job of making it bright and cheerful for the patients.” “Our staff have done some great artwork to help cheer the patients up.” “The atmosphere is always light and is very nice for the patients here. We try to make it as festive as possible.” Nurse Sharifa expressed her pride in working at the hospital during the festive season. She remarked, “They should feel like they’re home and they should feel happy here.” BBC Bristol is accessible on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Individuals can submit story ideas via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. This content is Copyright 2024 BBC, with all rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external sites. Further details on their approach to external linking are available.