Congratulations to the Royal Hospital Donnybrook on achieving the Silver level of the Happy Heart Healthy Eating Award. This award recognises the hospital’s continued commitment to creating a healthier food environment for staff and visitors alike. The Happy Heart Healthy Eating Award is a unique health promotion initiative developed by the Irish Heart Foundation in the mid-1990s. Over the past 25+ years, and with continued support from the HSE, the programme has evolved to meet the changing needs of healthcare services across Ireland.
Currently, 57 healthcare sites nationwide hold this prestigious accreditation, collectively supporting the wellbeing of more than 43,000 healthcare staff. The award has three levels – Bronze, Silver, and Gold – and applicants must meet tailored criteria for their chosen level. Through the programme, healthcare catering teams receive practical support to adopt healthier cooking methods and offer more nutritious food choices, all without significant extra cost. In 2021, the Irish Heart Foundation partnered with the HSE Healthy Eating Active Living Programme to further support healthcare services in meeting the HSE Nutrition Standards for food and drink provision.
What the Award Supports:
- A healthy food environment and a culture of wellbeing
- Long-term, sustainable changes in catering practice
- Visible commitment to staff health and wellbeing
Award-Winning Catering in Action
The Royal Hospital Donnybrook achieved Silver level recertification in April 2025, thanks to the dedication of the in-house catering team and catering partner Aramark. Under the leadership of Catering Manager Ruth McDonnell and Head Chef Kris Stefanski, the team has introduced more nutritious options, revamped menus with heart health in mind and demonstrated that healthier choices can still be delicious and satisfying.
This well-deserved recognition highlights the team’s hard work and innovation in supporting staff and visitor wellbeing every day.
Congratulations to everyone involved!
Interested in Applying?
Catering facilities that prepare and serve hot food on-site in HSE services or Section 38/39-funded health services are eligible to register. The programme is free to join—just contact [email protected] to get started.