The HCA awards are designed to recognise the hard work, excellence and achievements of HCA members across the UK. Being recognised for an award is a tremendous achievement.
Not only is it good for staff morale, it also provides a superb opportunity for hospitals to promote the good work being undertaken by their people within the communities which they serve.
Iain Robertson, chair of the HCA, said: "The Hospital Caterers Association awards recognise the very best our industry has to offer highlighting the vital role hospital catering plays in patient wellbeing and recovery."
There are six categories available for nomination including:
- Caterer of the Year
- Catering Team of the Year
- National Leadership Excellence Award
- National Rising star
- Sustainability Award
- Wilma Wilkie Outstanding Service Award
The winners will be announced at the Presidents Awards Dinner at the National Leadership & Development Forum 2026 at the DoubleTree Brighton Metropole on Tuesday 14th April 2026.
On the night three additional awards will be presented, which do not require nominations. They are the Chair’s Choice Award, Special Contribution Award and Trade Stand Award.
Since the awards were launched in 2001 more than 150 members have joined the exclusive list of award winners, having demonstrated their dedication and ability to improve the standards of catering and customer care within their respective hospitals – and consequently further the aims of the HCA.
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.