The NHS trust running Newham University Hospital has reported improved patient feedback following an annual inspection.

Barts Health NHS Trust was given top marks for cleanliness, its food service and the condition and maintenance of its hospitals in the latest Patient-Led Assessments of the Care Environment (PLACE).

Results from the mandatory inspection, led by NHS England, show the trust performed above the national average for cleanliness, food services and the upkeep of hospital buildings, with improvement made in every assessment category since last year.

“I am delighted that assessors acknowledged the care taken by our staff and our partner service providers to ensure a good patient environment,” said Reza Miah, estates and facilities patient lead at the trust.

“All our patients deserve to be cared for in a clean, safe environment and our staff are also keen to provide high-quality care while knowing that their patients are comfortable.

“As a trust, we are really encouraged by this year’s results. Not only have we scored above the national average in five categories, but we have also shown improvement in every area — with significant improvements made. This is real testament to how we use feedback to focus our efforts on improving services.”

Overall, the trust scored 99 per cent for cleanliness and 95 per cent for the condition, appearance and maintenance of its hospitals; both above the national average.

Barts Health claimed in a press release its new contractor, Serco, proved “particularly popular” at St Bartholomew’s Hospital and Newham University Hospital, a surprising statement given staff employed by the outsourcing giant at the trust protested over pay earlier this year.

About 1,600 cleaners, porters, security guards and catering staff will miss out on a pay rise offered to NHS employees.

Trade union Unite previously said the private contractor “refused to engage with workers” over the £2,000 a year salary bump, though the trust maintained dialogue between both parties was ongoing.

PLACE ratings for ‘food and hydration’ and ‘ward food’ at the two hospitals rose more than nine per cent and seven per cent on average respectively.