Get involved: Meals on Wheels Week 2026 takes place 2-6 November

The National Association of Care Catering (NACC) is urging the whole country to get behind Meals on Wheels Week 2026 and help celebrate this valuable frontline service that supports recipients to live safely and independently at home.

With social care reform currently featuring high on the government’s agenda, Meals on Wheels Week provides a timely reminder of the social, economic, psychological and preventative benefits of Meals on Wheels services, whether delivered to people in their own homes or via day centres and luncheon clubs.

More Than Just a Meal

Across the UK, demand for this crucial service is rising, yet provision is declining. For most service users, Meals on Wheels is so much more than just a nutritious meal; it’s a social lifeline that counteracts the devastating effects of isolation and loneliness. The delivery of a meal brings regular human contact, and the opportunity for a welfare and hydration check – both invaluable for those who may not see anyone else during their day.

The NACC has been organising its annual Meals on Wheels Week for more than three decades, supporting providers in raising the profile of the service by bringing together caterers, food suppliers, volunteers, drivers, carers, older people and the wider public in a week-long celebration.

There is a specific focus for each day of the Week and everyone is encouraged to get involved.

Spotlight Monday – 2 November

MPs, councillors and community leaders are invited to join a delivery round or visit a production kitchen to see the service in action.

Thank You Tuesday – 3 November

This is a chance to celebrate the local heroes who make the service possible, by sharing behind the scenes stories, fun facts and a public thank you.

Wellness Wednesday – 4 November

Taking time to share simple wellness tips and messages highlighting the importance of good nutrition and hydration for health and independence is encouraged.

Warm, Safe & Well Thursday – 5 November

To keep older and vulnerable people safe at home, take the opportunity to share winter safety advice and promote local support services.

Friday Friends – 6 November

Celebrate the power of shared meals and the connection people enjoy when eating together.

Says Neel Radia, NACC National Chair: “As a country we simply cannot afford to lose any more Meals on Wheels services.

“We all know that prevention is better than cure, and a regular nutritious hot meal and reminder to keep hydrated go a long way to preventing unnecessary hospital admissions or the need for a care home place.

“But the positive impact of Meals on Wheels goes way beyond nutritional support. I cannot emphasise strongly enough that we are talking about More Than Just a Meal. The drivers delivering the meals are able to identify cold or unsafe homes, slips, trips and falls risks, or changes in health or wellbeing before they turn into a crisis which puts extra pressure on our overstretched health and social care services.

“Meals on Wheels Week is not only about celebrating this wonderful provision; it is also about protecting the future of Meals on Wheels by bringing the services to the attention of everyone from the UK Government to the general public.”

Together we can make a difference

Individuals, organisations and businesses taking part in Meals on Wheels Week are encouraged to share what they are doing on social media channels, using the hashtags:

#MealsonWheels2026

#MoreThanJustAMeal

#SaveMealsOnWheels