The University of Warwick and Coventry City Council have joined together to enhance safer eating on the Coventry Campus.
The University is part of a new partnership with Coventry City Council’s Food and Safety Team, Warwick’s Health and Safety Team together with the Campus Conference and Commercial Services Group.
The new collaboration, known as the Primary Authority Partnership (PAP), promises to deliver assured and tailored advice on food safety and standards, all through a single point of contact.
The University runs a significant conference facility and the Warwick Food Group outlets, which are integral to the partnership initiative. The aim is to offer more diverse, inclusive and better dining options for students, staff and University visitors.
Cllr Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader, Coventry City Council, said:
“This is an example of the great collaborative work that happens in Coventry.
“This new partnership will have so many positive benefits for both the University and the Council, but more importantly, by working together we will help ensure the University students, and those using the conferencing facilities have delicious, exciting and safe food to eat”.
The partnership will mean that the Council will provide bespoke support services to ensure that the University's culinary ventures meet all food safety regulations.
This includes seamless communication with enforcement agencies, local authorities, regulators, and the public to streamline all food-related enquiries. Also, the University will receive ongoing strategic support, advice and guidance from the Council’s professionally qualified officers.
Nikki Castledine, the Council’s Food and Safety Manager and Graham Hakes, Senior Health and Safety Adviser at the University of Warwick in a joint statement, said:
“This partnership exemplifies the fantastic collaborative spirit within our regulatory teams and at the University. Together, we’ll ensure that the University’s students and conference attendees enjoy amazing, exciting, and safer food experiences.”
Matt Drew, Director of Food and Beverage on behalf of the University of Warwick’s Campus and Commercial Services Group, said:
“We are thrilled to be working closely with Coventry City Council. It will allow us to elevate our food offerings and ensure the highest safety and quality standards for our students, staff and campus visitors. Our goal is to break the mould of institutional catering, and this partnership is a significant step towards achieving that vision.”
The University will benefit from access to authoritative and customised advice, recognition for strong compliance measures, an effective approach to business regulations, and enhanced confidence in protecting customers and themselves.