The visit was organised by West Sussex County Council as part of an ongoing awareness campaign by the National Association of Care Catering (NACC), which showcases the benefits of the Meals on Wheels service and the value of supporting the elderly and vulnerable in their homes.
The TUCO chair spoke to recipients of the meals, which are produced and delivered by apetito.
Julie Barker, said: “We all feel very passionately about the role that Meals on Wheels has in helping and supporting the elderly and vulnerable in enabling them to continue enjoying living independently at home.
“In many cases this is the only hot meal an individual will eat each day. It helps keep people nourished and hydrated and importantly, also contributes to reducing costly malnutrition-related admissions to hospital.
“Meals on Wheels is, however, so much more than just a meal. For many it is a social lifeline that eases the isolation and loneliness many elderly in our society endure.
“The delivery of a meal brings regular human contact, which for many may be the only interaction with other people they have the opportunity to enjoy. It also provides a ‘wellbeing’ check, offering valuable piece of mind for family and friends that their loved one has answered the door and has eaten a nutritious meal.”
Julie was recently named amongst the top 20 Public Sector Most Influential in the country by Cost Sector Catering magazine for the fifth year running.