Having worked in a local authority for many years I, like you, have come across lots of councillors across the country that we work alongside and have great support from most. However, last month saw a huge shift in many local elections, as you will all be aware, so goodness knows what or who will be coming forward in the months to come.
And this uncertainty comes on top of the continuing trouble in the Gulf that is affecting food and fuel supplies and, inevitably prices. Then there is the instability surrounding our own Government here at the minute, while there seems no end of the cost of living crisis.
As ever, though, caterers working in the public sector are still delivering the best quality food can to the clients, customers and users that need us most.
And with so much going on at the top, it does make you wonder whether the issues we are campaigning for, such as the creation of an All-Party Parliamentary Group on public sector catering, will ever get to the top of anyone’s priority list. But we don’t give up, and we will keep knocking on those doors.
Last month I had a trip to Glasgow to join Nicky Joiner, chair of ASSIST FM at the organisation’s annual conference where the theme was ‘Shaping Tomorrow Together’. This was a lovely trip over the border and a great networking opportunity where ideas and solutions were shared in a programme of very inspirational and informative sessions.
There was a great exhibition of suppliers showcasing their innovation and products and it culminated in a wonderful awards dinner where the menu was developed showcasing the dishes produced by the finalists in the Scottish Local Authority Cook of the Year Award.
It was a wonderful evening of celebration and you could feel the passion and see the talent of these fantastic chefs across our amazing industry.
Finally, the best news this month is that Iain Robertson has been appointed the new vice chair of the Public Sector Catering Alliance. Iain is the catering operations manager at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS foundation Trust and has just finished a term of office as chair of the Hospital Caterers Association.
He has had a long career in that has included experience as a military caterer before going into healthcare, so his knowledge across these areas is amazing. He has worked alongside all the PSC Alliance organisations and understands the challenges we have, so I really think it’s a great fit for us at the Alliance.
Lastly, there are only a few weeks left to have your say on the consultation of the proposed school food standards, so if you haven’t yet please consider taking part.
