Come dine with us: Bringing patients together, one meal at a time

26 Sep 2025

The introduction of a patient communal dining trial within the Specialist Rehabilitation Services (SRS) ward at St John of God Mt Lawley Hospital is proving popular with patients, offering both social connection and a boost to their rehabilitation journey.

Twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, patients can choose to join others for a shared lunch. After selecting a meal from the hospital’s on-demand room service menu, their order is delivered to the communal dining area, where they enjoy lunch alongside other patients.

A poster promoting communal dining.

In addition to fostering connection, communal dining can offer significant benefits to hospital patients, including improving mood and emotional well-being, supporting healthier eating habits and encouraging movement to help prevent pressure injuries. 

SRS Nurse Unit Manager, Priya Philip said she has been amazed by how quickly the communal dining initiative has taken off and the enthusiasm patients have shown.

“To be honest, the patients are loving it”, she said.

“On the first two days, we had half of our patients attend and from there the trend has continued.”

The feedback from patients has been equally positive, with many appreciating the opportunity to leave their rooms and connect with others.

“I have really enjoyed the communal dining for the company and conversation”, said patient Bruce.

“It’s a welcome change of scenery from the four walls of our rooms.”

Another patient Bevan also praised the initiative.

“It’s helping with my recuperation, by giving me the chance to talk with other patients about my experience and hear about theirs,” he said.

Given the positive response so far, the hospital is exploring plans to offer communal dining on more days and expanding to other wards, creating more opportunities for patients to share meals, conversations and connections during their recovery.