The reception was to say ‘thank you’ to those who provide meals on wheels and lunch clubs to support older and vulnerable people receive nutritious meals as well as reducing loneliness and social isolation.
During the visit NACC chair Neel Radia presented Her Majesty with an Honorary Membership of the Association that unites, supports and represents everyone working in and associated with catering in the UK care sector.
Meals on Wheels Week has been organised by the NACC for over 30 years. It shines a spotlight on the vital Meals on Wheels service across the UK, celebrating staff, volunteers, recipients, and partners. This year the theme was ‘Fighting Hunger and Reducing Loneliness’.
Queen Camilla listened to the heart-warming examples of how important meals on wheels are to those who receive the service and the vital role they play in supporting older and vulnerable people living in our communities. Her Majesty also heard about the steep decline in services across the country.
In 2023 the NACC released a report in partnership with Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE), that showed vital Meals on Wheels services on the brink of collapse, with only 29% still in operation across the UK operated by Local Authorities and fewer than 18% in England.
Radia commented: “We are thrilled that The Queen has taken time to recognise the real value of meals on wheels and the people who deliver them, their passion, their dedication in ensuring seniors and those vulnerable in our community have access to good nutrition, well-being checks and social contact.
“Meals on Wheels provides so much more than just a meal. Every delivery brings nutritious food, vital welfare checks, and friendly human contact - helping older and vulnerable people live independently, safely, and with dignity in their own homes. Meals on Wheels is about care, connection, and independence. We are proud to celebrate the service and the people who make it possible.”