A Care UK catering expert has been shortlisted for a national catering award for his leadership qualities in delivering a ‘dining with dignity’ approach for residents.
James Clear, hotel services manager, has been shortlisted in the Catering Manager of the Year category of the National Association of Care Catering (NACC) Awards 2020.
Clear supports 37 care homes in the southern region of England and is the culinary lead for 123 Care UK homes across the country.
Ipswich resident Clear has worked in collaboration with a Care UK regional roving chef, Andrew Mussett, to develop three recipe books to inspire chefs.
It includes topics such as snacking and texture-modified foods, with recipes marked with diet and allergy suitability.
As part of Care UK’s ‘dining with dignity’ approach, Clear has spearheaded the implementation of the role of a ‘Dining Room Owner’ - a dedicated home team member who is passionate about making sure each resident fully enjoys each meal they have.
“Our commitment ensures that residents have dignity, choice and great food that not only looks and tastes as one would expect from fine dining, but that also has the nutritional content to support individual dietary needs,” he said.
“We strive to make a positive impact on residents’ health and wellbeing through nutrition and hydration - whether it’s fortifying meals or ensuring that foods made of a texture that’s easier to swallow appear similar to other diners’ meals while being safe, well-presented and appetising.”
Jon Bicknell, Care UK food and services director, said: “Care UK has invested heavily in equipment and training and I’m particularly proud of the work James has done in ensuring our chefs and everyone in the home teams are motivated and understanding of each resident’s dietary needs.”
He added: “Along with suppliers, he has implemented a series of masterclasses for all Care UK chefs to meet one another and share in-depth thinking and tips whilst enhancing their skills and maximising creativity.
“One of these includes a ‘food is medicine’ course to help our chefs understand the nutritional make up of foods and make more informed choices about ingredients and menu design. James has also arranged practical training sessions in butchery, taste layering, seafood, modified diets and chocolate work.”
Chefs at two Care UK homes, Murrayside and Pear Tree Court, have also been shortlisted in the Care Establishment category of the awards for their commitment to recognising dietary needs of each individual and ensuring there is always plenty of choice on offer.
Winners will be announced at the National Training & Development Forum on Thursday 8 October.
