Hosted by the National Association of Care Catering (NACC), HRH met with the centre’s team and service users alike, where she heard all about the role that Meals On Wheels and Lunch Clubs play within communities and the ‘value’ it brings to peoples’ lives.
As well as meeting kitchen staff, she also met the drivers who deliver the hot, ‘nutritious’ meals and visited Russia Lane Day Centre’s sensory room (which is designed to stimulate people with dementia).
NACC national chair Neel Radia said: “Welcoming Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall to the Russia Lane Day Centre was an absolute honour.
“The time and valuable support that Her Royal Highness has given will help raise awareness of the wonderful and vital role such services play in communities across the country.
“Lunch Clubs and Meals On Wheels offer many life-enhancing benefits, from nutritious meals to advice, wellness checks and a friendly face and someone to interact with - it’s no wonder they are often the highlight of many older people’s days or weeks.
“The Duchess has been an honorary member of the NACC since 2009 and her continued support is very much appreciated and respected.
“It was a pleasure to be part of today’s festivities and to see how much Her Royal Highness’ visit meant to everyone involved.”
Mayor of Tower Hamlets, John Biggs, added: “I was delighted that Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall could meet people who have been instrumental in ensuring that Tower Hamlets is a borough where older residents retain their independence, wellbeing and quality of life in their advancing years.
“Tackling loneliness and social isolation are now key priorities for us. They can lead to poorer physical and mental health and increase chances of developing dementia, depression and early death.
“Local residents with dementia benefit hugely from the specialist help and support provided at Russia Lane and the staff are highly skilled and experienced in working with people affected by the disease.
“Places like Russia Lane offer a wealth of services to ensure residents aged 50+ keep their independence and dignity, with the help of community care and support services.
“It was wonderful that Her Royal Highness saw the huge contribution this service makes to the lives of local people.”