The transformation of the west entrance and reception area at University Hospital Dorset’s Royal Bournemouth Hospital site has been completed with the opening this week of the new ‘Café West’ coffee shop (28 February).

The new facility provides a range of hot and cold drinks alongside a selection of snacks, with all profits reinvested in patient care.

Commenting at the official opening, Klaudia Zwolinska, UHD’s restaurant manager (pictured second right), said:

“Café West is a great addition to the RBH site, complementing the existing catering facilities by providing a modern, high-street standard facility for patients, visitors and staff.”

“We’ve been delighted with the support on our opening day – the team have been amazing, they’re definitely a bit tired but it’s been totally worth it!"

The hospital’s deputy chief executive, Professor Paula Shobbrook (pictured left), also praised the catering team’s contribution to the hospital:

“We are delighted with how the new café looks knowing it will provide a much-valued service to everybody using the revamped west entrance.

“We are so proud of all the team that helped develop this facility and hope the new café will provide a friendly relaxed atmosphere, as well as a place to get a coffee and a bite to eat.”

The café is currently open on weekdays between 8am and 3pm, serving a range of hot and cold drinks as well as sweet and savoury snacks, including a wide selection of gluten free and vegan products.

Plans are in place to extend the opening hours together with the menu to add hot snacks, sandwiches and salads.