The Drinking, Eating and Moving within 24 hours after surgery (DrEaMing) initiative is being launched at the Royal Stoke University Hospital and County Hospital, Stafford.

Karen Griffiths, interim matron for trauma and project lead at UHNM, said: ‘All our elective surgery patients will be encouraged to eat, drink and move within 24 hours or as soon as possible. This simple approach reduces complications, shortens length of stay and improves overall experience, meaning patients leave hospital quicker and healthier.

‘Our teams across UHNM have embraced the programme and it's fantastic to see such strong collaboration to improve both patient experience and hospital flow.'

UHNM is one of 12 NHS trusts taking part in the NHS England programme following a successful trial in July 2024, with national evidence showing it can reduce hospital stays by up to three days.