Nutrition and Dietetics

Overview

Dietitians are qualified and regulated health professionals that assess, diagnose and treat dietary and nutritional problems at an individual and wider public-health level.

They use the most up-to-date public health and scientific research on food, health and disease which they translate into practical guidance to enable people to make appropriate lifestyle and food choices.

Our team includes Dietitians, Dietetic Support Workers, Nutrition Nurse Specialist and Mouth Care Nurse.  We run adult and paediatric outpatient clinics at Darent Valley Hospital & Queen Mary’s Hospital; visit patients in their own homes, community hospitals and care homes. We also run Dietitian clinics within GP surgeries

We also work closely with catering teams in our hospital and in community settings, to ensure that the food provided to patients meets their nutritional and dietary requirements, and make provisions for patients who require a special diet.

Dietitian’s complete a four year degree or equivalent and must be registered by the Health and Care Professions Council.

For further information on Dietitians visit the British Dietetic Association website. 

Teaching

We regularly welcome dietetic students on placement at Darent Valley Hospital.  Our staff undertake training on how to supervise students.  Dietetic students have the opportunity to engage in Darent Valley’s inter-professional student surgery each month, co-ordinated by our Clinical Education Department.  Our team also provides training to other members of staff including registered nurses, preceptors, healthcare assistants and doctors. 

Continuing Professional Development

All qualified staff are required to maintain a CPD portfolio in line with Health and Care Professions Council and British Dietetics Association requirements.  Time is allowed for continuing professional development e.g. attending training, review of journals, reflecting on practice. 

Work Experience

We offer work experience placements for students over age 17 or over.  Please see Work experience :: Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust (dgt.nhs.uk) for more information.