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The rewards and challenges of being a prison caterer

25th Apr 2024 - 07:00
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David Oliver Dave prison catering england wales career
Abstract
David Oliver, the head of prison catering in England and Wales until he stepped down at the end of March this year, has talked about his own life as a chef and why he would recommend it as a career choice for any young person already working in a kitchen or any student at catering college.

He is realistic about the difficulties of the role, saying: "Yes, the challenges are great making sure that all the dietary needs are met of a multi-cultural, diverse prison population - and all on a budget of just £2.70 a day per person for three meals and snacks.

"But it's the most rewarding place in the public sector to work. You can plan your holidays from one year to the next, there are no split shifts, you're going to see daylight, and you're teaching the prisoners to cook so you get the satisfaction of helping them and the thanks they show."

His advice for anyone considering working in a prison kitchen?

"Keep your mind open. It's not the first place you might consider, but get in touch with your local prison and see if they have any shifts available, talk to the people already working there and see if it will suit you."

You can see the full interview with David below.

Written by
David Foad