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Local Care Home Chef Shortlisted For National Care Cook Competition

Court-Regis-ChefA Chef from a local Kent care home ‘Court Regis’ in Sittingbourne, has been shortlisted to go through to a South East Region Cook off, for the ‘National Association of Care Catering (NACC) Care Cook Competition 2014’.

Avante became members of the NACC last March having seen the publicity for Care Cook of the Year and thinking how great it would be to be able to enter too.  Through 2013 it became apparent the high skill levels of the entries for 2012 / 2013, even the current winner Simon Lawrence spoke about entering the competition for 3 years before being shortlisted.

So when Avante Cooks were given the opportunity to enter they were actively encouraged, but also informed that it was a tough competition to enter and even though they had the ability they were not to be disappointed if they weren’t shortlisted.

After receiving the good news that she was shortlisted for her entry Paula Robinson said; “I am really surprised and pleased.  I was not expecting this, it’s the first time I have entered the competition.”  Paula cooks for residents at the Avante Care and Support care home, which provides residential care for older people living with dementia.

Today (Thursday 13th), Paula will be travelling to London for the Regional Heats, accompanied by Sophie Murray, Head of Nutrition and Hydration for Avante Care and Support, who herself won the Hydration Award at the NACC Annual Conference and Exhibition, National Awards last year.

Sophie said; “This really helps endorse that Paula is truly a rising star in the kitchen, not always recognising her own skill and worth but truly rising to opportunities and challenges and providing amazing food which shows in the contented residents in the home.  A year ago Paula was nervous to present her food – now she is keen to.  It’s a transformation and she deserves total credit for it.  Her Manager, Emma Hodges as well as her mentor in the kitchen Suzi Payne are both incredibly proud of her achievements.  Let’s keep our fingers crossed for the Regional Heats this week as the Finals are one step closer now!!

This achievement leads on from the recent collaboration with Rosemary Shrager and her Cookery School, which all Cooks attended to receive a masterclass in cooking nutritious beautiful food for the elderly, when Rosemary too recognised the talents within Avante.”

 

 
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