The Fruit Shop - NHSGGC Public Health Resource Unit

Abstract
The fruit shop in the Royal Alexandra Hospital was established in 2002
with initial outlay provided by Have a Heart Paisley (HAHP) to help
improve access to fruit and vegetables for the local community. The
venture had a successful first year but had placed considerable demands
on the hospital staff responsible for it on a daily basis. In order to ensure
a constant stock of good quality, fresh produce the management of the
shop was given over to a wholesale fruit and vegetable supplier in 2003.
In 2004-5 a series of three separate evaluative surveys was undertaken
looking at the impact of the shop as a healthy eating resource for all
hospital staff and users. Questionnaires were given to staff, out-patients
and visitors. Brief interviews with a small sample of staff were also
carried out.
The results reveal that there has been a significant positive change in
fruit and vegetable consumption by staff members since the fruit shop had
opened. While out-patients and visitors used the shop less there was
general support for the shop amongst these groups. Potential barriers to
using the shop were reported, including shift patterns, location of the
shop, hours of opening, and poor quality at times. Suggestions to help
overcome these barriers include extended opening hours to cover weekend
visiting times, a mobile trolley, ordering and/or delivery service and
refrigeration of products.
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