Yesterday, Her Majesty The Queen welcomed representatives of the National Association of Care Catering (NACC) to Clarence House in recognition of Meals on Wheels Week, which runs from 3rd to 7th November. The event acknowledged the commitment of those who deliver meals on wheels and run lunch clubs across the UK, supporting older and vulnerable people not only with nutritious food but with meaningful social contact that helps to reduce loneliness and isolation.
During the reception, NACC National Chair, Neel Radia, presented Her Majesty with an Honorary Membership of the Association, which brings together and represents individuals and organisations involved in catering within the UK care sector.
Meals on Wheels Week has been championed by the NACC for more than 30 years. The annual campaign highlights the essential role of Meals on Wheels services nationwide, celebrating the staff, volunteers, service users and partners who make it possible. The theme for this year, “Fighting Hunger and Reducing Loneliness.”, focuses on raising awareness of the importance of good nutrition and social connection for older and vulnerable people living in the community.
The Queen heard first-hand the powerful stories illustrating the life-changing impact of Meals on Wheels, as well as the challenges the service is currently facing, including a significant reduction in provision across the UK.
Neel Radia, National Chair of the National Association of Care Catering said, “ We are thrilled that The Queen has taken time to recognise the real value of meals on wheels and the people who deliver them, their passion, their dedication in ensuring seniors and those vulnerable in our community have access to good nutrition, well-being checks and social contact. Meals on Wheels provides so much more than just a meal. Every delivery brings nutritious food, vital welfare checks, and friendly human contact – helping older and vulnerable people live independently, safely, and with dignity in their own homes.
“ Meals on Wheels is about care, connection, and independence. At the NACC, we are proud to celebrate the service and the people who make it possible.”
He added, “In 2023 we released a report in partnership with Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE), that showed vital Meals on Wheels services on the brink of collapse, with only 29% still in operation across the UK operated by Local Authorities, and fewer than 18% in England. Anecdotally, this situation has not improved.”