Resident-led judging model places dining choice at the heart of care.
Residents are taking centre stage in Advinia Health Care’s first-ever Chef of the Year competition, a brand-new initiative that is putting care home dining firmly in the spotlight – and in the hands of those who matter most.
The competition, which has just launched with its inaugural North Round, is the first time Advinia Health Care has brought together its talented in-house chefs to compete in a structured, multi-heat culinary challenge. Regional heats are now underway, with further rounds, including the Scottish heat in Glasgow next week, building momentum ahead of a prestigious Grand Final in Manchester this April.
Uniquely, this is not only a chef-led judging panel. Instead, residents are the primary judges, sampling, scoring and providing direct feedback on each dish. The overall winning dish from the Manchester final will earn a place on menus across Advinia homes, ensuring residents directly influence what is served in their communities.
The North Round saw exceptional talent on display. Mark McGuffie from Stonedale claimed first place with his Smoked Haddock Fishcake served with Minted Mushy Peas, Buttered Carrots, Homemade Chips and Tartare Sauce.
Second place went to Claudine Walker from Roberttown, whose Southern Fried Chicken with Broccoli, Carrots and Creamed Potatoes proved a firm favourite.
The atmosphere was one of celebration, engagement and entertainment. Residents fully embraced their role as judges, offering enthusiastic and thoughtful feedback throughout the day. In one memorable moment, resident Ron was so keen to keep sampling that his plate had to be gently taken away to ensure he could try all of the dishes on offer. The event also featured a heartfelt rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow by the lovely June, adding a special and uplifting touch to the occasion.
Mark Dale, Head of Hospitality for Advinia Health Care said:
“Food is fundamental to wellbeing in our homes. This competition not only celebrates the skill and dedication of our chefs, but most importantly empowers residents to shape their dining experience. Being our first Chef of the Year competition makes this especially exciting; it marks the beginning of something we hope will become a highlight in our calendar each year.”
EF-group is the main sponsor of the competition, with additional support from TC Meats and GW Price, providing quality ingredients. Together, these partners have helped make the event a true celebration of culinary excellence in care homes.
Rob Henry, Head of Culinary Solutions and Compliance added:
“We are proud to support Advinia Healthcare in launching their first Chef of the Year competition. Care catering plays a vital role in quality of life, and this initiative showcases how innovation, skill and resident engagement can come together in a truly meaningful way. The fact that residents are leading the judging, and that the winning dish will feature across menus, sets this apart as a forward-thinking and sector-leading initiative.”
Advinia Health Care operates care homes across the UK, providing residential, nursing and dementia care. The organisation places strong emphasis on nutrition, quality dining and creating meaningful daily experiences that enhance residents’ wellbeing.
With further heats to come and anticipation building for April’s Manchester final, Advinia Health Care’s Chef of the Year competition is already establishing itself as a powerful celebration of culinary talent in the care sector, driven by the voices of residents themselves.
