The HCA Forum is taking place at the DoubleTree Brighton Metropole on 14-15th April 2026. It is the UK’s only national event dedicated to the production, delivery, and service of nutritious food for patients, staff, and visitors in the NHS. It will be hosted by TV presenter and food expert Chris Bavin.
The Forum will showcase products, services, and solutions from over 100 suppliers, giving delegates the chance to explore the latest innovations in hospital catering. The event will provide practical insights, equipping attendees with actionable strategies and the confidence to innovate within their organisations.
The Early Bird Members Rates are now available for HCA members until Friday 30th January. Delegates can look forward to an inspiring programme, featuring thought-provoking speakers who will challenge conventional thinking and spark new ideas in hospital catering. If you are interested in attending the HCA Forum, visit here.
The programme includes:
- HCA Updates: national chair Iain Robertson
- Eat Well for Less: forum facilitator Chris Bavin
- Food Safety Updates and panel: featuring Nadim & Tanya Ednan-Laperouse
- Managing and Supporting Mental Health Issues: Charlie Hodson/Camilla Woods from Hospitality Action
- Working together as an industry: Anita Brown, who by the time of the Forum in April will be the Public Sector Catering Alliance chair
- Retail & Vending: Ashford & St Peters NHS Trust - Raouf Mansur/Eimear Jordan
- The importance of Supporting the Catering Service - A CEO's perspective: Joe Harrison, chief executive of Milton Keynes University Hospital
- Keynote motivational session: Aaron Phipps
The Hospital Caterers Association national awards, which are designed to recognise the hard work, excellence and achievements of HCA members across the UK, have opened for entries.
The nominee must be a full member of the Hospital Caterers Association. You have until Friday 20th February 2026 to submit your nominations via the website.