Issue 118 24.08.22
The weekly online newsletter for the care sector
Line-up of chefs is revealed for prestigious final THE line-up of care chefs set to compete in the national final of the National Association of Care Catering Care Chef of the Year 2022 culinary competition sponsored by Unilever Food Solutions and The Worshipful Company of Cooks has been announced. Throughout June and July, regional heats took place across the NACC regions – Scotland, North, Midlands, Wales, South West and South East – with care chefs showcasing their skills and specialist knowledge in a bid to secure their spot in the final of the prestigious event, which takes place on October 5 at West Nottingham College. The highest-scoring competitors from each heat were selected by the expert judges for their clear nutritional understanding of the foods they are using and how they benefit the needs of their clientele, plus their culinary flair through flavours, menu balance, execution, presentation, and hygiene best practice. The finalists are: n Justina Bajorinaite – Vegetarian for Life. n Nigel Cooke – Eastcote Park, Cinnamon Care Collection. n Brian Gollan – Ivybank House Care Home. n William Marsh – Brandon Care Ltd. n Vasilios Mavriano – Castle Hill House. n Alex Millichamp – Chandler Court.
n Michael Oatridge – Signature Senior Lifestyle. n Brian Preston – Lister House, Ripon. n Chris Pickard – Four Seasons Health Care. n Jade Smith – Camberley Manor, TLC Group. n Graham Watson – Lauder Lodge Care Home. Sue Cawthray, national chair of the NACC, said: “The calibre of entries was incredibly high, and we have seen exceptional dishes created and served by chefs across the regional heats. The finalists should be very proud of their achievements so far. “The national final in October is going to be a fantastic event. It will showcase and celebrate the care catering sector and the exceptional talent of our chefs. “Delicious, nutritious food and positive dining experiences are vital to quality care. I truly believe that the kitchen is at the heart of a care home and mealtime experiences really are life quality enhancing, both physically and emotionally.” Focusing on the importance of food, nutrition and positive mealtime experiences as part of quality care, entrants are challenged to create an appealing and delicious twocourse menu (main and dessert) appropriate for people in a care setting. The combined food cost for both courses should be no more than £3 per head based on three portions and it must be nutritionally balanced.
Three staff members at Coppice Lodge care home, operated by Ideal Carehomes, recently celebrated 10 years of loyal service since the opening of the home in 2012. Marking their decade of dedication was kitchen manager Charlotte Wood, kitchen chef Gillian Pool and head of housekeeping Catherine Simmons. The three were presented with a hamper, flowers and vouchers by Mayor of the Borough of Gedling Peter Barnes and the Deputy Mayor Sandra Barnes as a thank you for their work. Local entertainer and songbird Ami Evans from Bluebird Entertainment performed her ‘Summer Time’ themed set for residents, staff and guests. Attendees also enjoyed a buffet, cakes and a glass of wine, raising a toast to Coppice Lodge’s 10th birthday and it’s team members.
Deadline looms so get entering OPERATORS wanting to put themselves forward for recognition have been urged to enter the Caring UK Awards before it’s too late. Nominations for this year’s event are now open at www.caringukawards.co.uk The awards, organised by Script Events in partnership with Caring UK, recognise excellence and achievement in all corners of the care industry. And with more than 20 categories up for grabs, there’s something to suit every type of care business. These include everything from Quality in Housekeeping and Catering Team of the Year to Best Outdoor Environment and End of Life Team of the Year. Event organiser Dominic Musgrave said: “Nominations are coming in and our events team is already busy ensuring
that this year’s event is bigger and better than ever. “Our main aim is to recognise and honour the best in our wonderful sector and showcase the innovation and dedication that goes on every day so please share your successes and tell us about your hard work and initiatives by sending in your nominations … it’s a real privilege to read them.” A shortlist in each category will then be drawn up, with winners chosen by an expert panel. Trophies will be handed out at a glittering ceremony at the Athena in Leicester on Thursday, December 1 presented by Emmerdale actor Dean Andrews. n Deadline for nominations has been extended to noon on Friday, September 9 due to demand.
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