The comprehensive way shops and cafes run by the Friends of St Mary’s Hospital have embraced the nationwide Sugar Smart campaign, to counter obesity and tooth decay, has won widespread praise from members of the hospital trust.
The decision has been taken to stop selling multi-pack and large bars of chocolate at St Mary’s Hospital, whilst also displaying other sugary sweets and chocolate less prominently in the Friends’ shops and ward-visiting trolleys. Healthy options are being offered across the board.
Already the Friends’ initiative has been recognised by the awarding of a certificate from the Isle of Wight Council’s public health department, which is leading the Island’s response to the national campaign. This campaign not only focuses on raising awareness of the impact of sugar consumption on health, but also develops strategies to promote healthier choices.
Lesley Myland, chairman of the Friends, a registered charity mostly comprising volunteers, has said:
“We seem to have been well ahead of the game on the Island, and I feel very proud of our team”.
