The council has started delivery of three hot meal meals per week to elderly and more vulnerable residents this Winter.
The people receiving the meals are over 65 years old, in receipt of social care, housebound, living alone and often do not have the support of families or friends who live nearby.
Jean who is 83 years old and lives in Westbourne Park provided her feedback about the service:
I’ve lived in my house for 43 years. Unfortunately, I’ve lost my husband and two children so I now live on my own and experience mobility issues. The first meal I had as part of the service was sausage and mash. I didn’t think I would like it. When I had COVID-19, I didn’t eat properly for around three to four months and my appetite hasn’t completely recovered. But I must say, that sausage and mash was delicious.
Bezuayehu Denboba, who delivers the meals on behalf of the Council said:
The delivery of a hot, nutritious meal to these residents is so important. I will deliver the meal to the resident in their house and I will often sort a plate and cutlery especially for those who are less mobile. Residents have different allergies so I will ensure they get the right meal for them. It makes a positive difference to their day.
The hot meal provision is a two-year pilot over the Winter, with a total estimated cost of £150k.
There is a range of meals available to residents including British, Kosher and Halal and they are also adapted depending on residents' allergies and medication needs.
Adult Social Care is guided by the need to ensure that older people and vulnerable residents stay safe, are healthy and are linked in with their communities.
To measure its impact, the council will evaluate how it has helped residents feel healthier and stronger including preventing falls.
Cllr Nafsika Butler-Thalassis, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health & Volunteering said:
This service is important at a time when food prices are particularly high. It prioritises vulnerable residents, especially those without the care of family and friends. This is part of our wider cost of living support to help residents this Winter.
This work is part of the Council’s Fairer Westminster Strategy, which includes ambitions to reduce poverty and inequality and make Westminster a healthier and more equitable place.
To find out more about support for families in receipt of social care, go to https://www.peoplefirstinfo.org.uk/.
To find out more about the cost of living support, visit our hub Cost of living support hub and strategy | Westminster City Council.
Published: 19 December 2023