Finalists previously competed in 90-minute regional heats, where they were challenged to produce a nutritionally balanced two-course menu, main and dessert. The menu had to be suitable for service users in a care setting and have the combined food cost for both courses of no more than £1.50 per head based on four portions.
Neel Radia, national chair, NACC, said: “Catering within the care sector requires specific skills and knowledge to ensure that the dietary and nutritional needs of the elderly and vulnerable are met.
“Important factors such as nutrition, budget restrictions, specific dietary requirements and needs, such as dementia, dysphagia and fortification, menu planning and regulations must be understood. They must also possess the culinary ability and flair to consistently create great-tasting and attractive food.
“The NACC Care Cook of the Year competition enables care cooks and chefs to showcase this knowledge and talent that the sector holds in abundance, whilst also raising the profile of this incredible and valuable sector of the industry.
“I congratulate all of this year’s finalists for their fantastic achievement so far in the competition. They are fine examples of best practice and excellence and I wish them all the very best for their preparations for the final. I very much look forward to what is sure to be a thrilling day.”
The 2015 NACC Care Cook of the Year National Finalists are :
Scottish Region:
Paul Burton, Parklands Care Home, Meallmore Ltd, Alloa, Clackmannanshire
Margaret Stewart, Methilhaven Care Home, Fife Council
Northern Region:
Matt Gomersall, Donisthorpe Hall, Leeds
Oliver Smith, Wetherby Manor, Wetherby
Midlands Region:
Paul Burch, Dukes Court Care Home, Wellingborough
Samantha Smallwood, Sunrise Senior Living of Edgbaston
Welsh Region:
Gareth O’Hara, Sunrise Senior Living of Cardiff
South West Region:
Gary Ford, St Monica Trust, Bristol
William Marsh, Brandon Care Ltd, Exmouth
South East Region:
Becky Allcorn, Hanover Housing Rotary Lodge, Worthing
Matthew Dodge, Coombe Hill Manor, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey