DON’T WORRY, we’ll not mention the budget. Instead let’s look forward to the festive season, Christmas lunches and parties, mince pies and roasted chestnuts, and yes, I’m optimistic about the future, we can do it.
In this, our third monthly issue, we’ll be reporting on the NACC Training & Development Forum held recently in the Midlands and the sterling work carers do in support of those requiring specialist care. Also, on the same theme, we report on the charity The Swallows, a head and neck cancer support group.
We’re bringing to you new products and offers, together with news of the Foodcare team and a little about Michelin Star gastronomy.
Enjoy! from Barry Wells
OUR HERO CARERS
Article by Sarah Stone
In the news we are reminded of the sterling work our carers take in looking after care home residents and those living in their own homes. However, behind the scenes there is another team of professionals whose aim is to provide nutritional support and hydration.
Once again, Foodcare is at the forefront of supporting the National Association of Care Caterer’s (NACC), exhibiting at the NACC Training & Development Forum at the East Midlands Conference Centre.
With a fully loaded two-day programme this is a unique training event for professionals providing catering and related services within the care sector. Industry leading speakers included Aaron Phipps MBE, Paralympic Champion, together with a fantastic selection of workshops.
Foodcare exhibited the very latest innovations of products to support those with eating difficulties enhancing their independence and dignity, not to mention nutritional benefits.
It was also with great delight I accepted, on behalf of Foodcare, our Premier Partner certificate for a second year at the NACC’s AGM meeting, held at the event. Foodcare is proud to support the association working in partnership with the same commitment providing a positive impact on individual lives including the staff and teams delivering vital services within care.
For a Foodcare Healthcare catalogue please contact me directly or call the Foodcare sales office. Alternatively, click here to view the catalogue.
MICHELIN STARS
Article by Barry Wells
I recently spent eight days in a delightful small cliff top boutique hotel in Portugal, which also boasted a Michelin Star restaurant, a destination on the world’s top cuisine list.
Fortunately, there was a choice of eating areas giving us one shot at an affordable experience. My wife and I chose a starter and main course but included tasters and sorbet’s. At over £250, excluding drinks, was it value for money?
The chef was incredibly clever and artistic, but I know a location in Norfolk where chef Dale Smith and his team at the Dabbling Duck present equally delicious food, beautifully presented.
I enjoyed Cromer Crab tostada as a starter followed by pan fried seabass, charred yellow courgette, tempura globe artichoke and saffron cream – total £34.25 (excluding drinks). My colleague Sarah Stone and I hosted a business guest who was equally impressed.
Visit their website www.thedabblingduck.co.uk
THE SWALLOWS HEAD & NECK CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
Article by Joe Wells
OUR TWO SARAHS MET CHRIS CURTIS, THE FOUNDER OF THE SWALLOWS HEAD & NECK CANCER SUPPORT GROUP, AT THE IDDSI FESTIVAL IN SEPTEMBER. IN THIS ISSUE OF SIP&SERVE, WE HIGHLIGHT THE INCREDIBLE WORK THIS CHARITY DOES IN SUPPORTING THOSE LIVING WITH, OR AFFECTED BY, HEAD AND NECK CANCER.
The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Support Group, A Beacon of Support
The charity is dedicated to individuals affected by head and neck cancers and plays a crucial role in providing support and resources. The mission revolves around four key pillars: Support, Awareness, Research and Advocacy.
Support
The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Support Group offers a comprehensive support network for patients, caregivers and families facing head and neck cancers. This includes emotional support, practical assistance in navigating the complexities of treatment and recovery into survivorship.
Support group meetings facilitated by the charity creates a safe space for individuals to share experiences and insights, fostering a sense of community, family and understanding. Meetings are held every second Thursday of the month where patients, caregivers, family and friends come together in a relaxed and friendly environment to meet like-minded people.
Awareness
The charity actively engages in raising awareness about head and neck cancers, their risk factors and symptoms. Education and early detection are pivotal in improving outcomes for patients. The charity collaborates with health professionals around the globe, conducts awareness campaigns, and utilises various platforms to disseminate information to the public.
Making a Difference
The charity stands as a beacon of hope for those navigating the challenge of head and neck cancers. By providing support 24/7, raising awareness, supporting research, supporting hospital teams, and advocating for change, the charity contributes significantly to the wellbeing of individuals and families affected by these complex cancers. Patients, caregivers, family members and friends all gather to have a social evening and chat about how they are dealing with the head and neck cancer journey. Currently, they have several support groups in the UK and unique international virtual monthly patient and caregiver meetings. Feedback from attendees reveals that they greatly appreciate the opportunity to openly and honestly discuss their specific issues and receive support.
Making a difference in the fight against head and neck cancers
Head and neck cancers pose unique challenges, affecting vital areas, the mouth, throat, nose, and salivary glands. Coping with
the physical, emotional, and financial burdens can be overwhelming for individuals and their families. This is where The Swallows step in, providing support, awareness, and hope.
Their website highlights the locations of current groups. If there’s one close to you, make a call or send an email to start on a new journey of hope and belief, or just turn up at the next meeting where a friendly face will greet you.
Email: info@theswallows.org.uk X (Twitter): @swallowsgroup
The Swallows Head & Neck Cancer Charity Business First Lancaster House
Amy Johnson Way Blackpool
FY4 2RP
Charity Number: 1149794
ESSENTIAL TRAINING
Article by Joe Wells
Leading ‘Partnership Supplier’ Neville UK is very much at the forefront of Foodcare’s product selection offering high quality and competitively priced products. With over 5,000 products available it is essential the Foodcare support team are fully aware of the range, benefits and new product launches.
Neville’s national sales manager for UK and Ireland, Richard van Stone, pictured in the centre of the group, devoted a training day in the Foodcare showroom bringing the team up to date with new products and ideas.
Working in partnership with Neville UK, under the brand name ‘Genware’, Foodcare can compete nationally in the supply of tableware, barware, glassware, cutlery, table display, light kitchen equipment, ‘Plug and Go’ cooking equipment, storage, clothing, all in stock for next day delivery.
Visit www.foodcaredirect.com
Image below from left to right –Bethany, Julie, Joe, Richard, Sarah S, Vanessa and Sarah P.
INTRODUCING TWO STUNNING NEW TABLEWARE COLLECTIONS
Introducing two stunning new tableware collections that bring nature-inspired elegance to your dining experience: the Aqua Green Terra Porcelain and Sereno Porcelain Cirrus ranges.
The Aqua Green collection, with its lush tapestry of tranquil green hues, captures the serene beauty of aquatic landscapes, transforming any table into a vision of natural elegance. Meanwhile, the Sereno Cirrus range, crafted in matt white porcelain with a soft grey rim, draws inspiration from the delicate beauty of clouds, adding a refined, airy touch to any setting.
Each collection brings its own bold sophistication and timeless appeal, designed to make every meal a beautifully crafted experience.
To celebrate the launch of these fantastic products, we’re offering a 7.5% special introductory discount on both ranges until the end of November!
Click here to view the full ranges: Terra Porcelain Sereno Terra Stoneware