The importance of Embracing cultural diversity IN MENUS

Ownacarehome in conversation with Paul Robottom, Founder of Signature Dining about the importance of Embracing cultural diversity IN MENUS

“As a specialist care caterer, meeting the needs of residents and clients is a top priority for Signature Dining. Providing a quality service that embraces and celebrates cultural diversity is an essential part of our service, having vast knowledge and experience of working with faith-based settings and homes that have a diverse multi-cultural community of residents.  Going the extra mile to get to know clients and their settings, and working in partnership with the home managers and care teams to understand residents needs and preferences is a vital part of the service.”

“Understanding the ethos of a care home is an essential part of encompassing cultural diversity in all menus. A care home at the heart of a catholic or Jewish community will have a vastly different resident demographic, in that they may have very specific requirements in relation to their menus and food offer. We tailor our menus to meet these specifications, whilst maintaining a compassion and understanding that not all residents practice the faith of the home. In this instance our chef managers spend time getting to know the residents, learning about each one as an individual, and developing a secure understanding of their cultural needs and personal preferences. Listening to residents and to their relatives is essential to providing a wholesome food offer that is both culturally appropriate and authentic.”

“Our teams are experts at ensuring that all residents feel socially supported at meals times, enjoying their meals in comfort and dignity, without any worry of being isolated or excluded for having a bespoke menu. Our annual events calendar features days that celebrate the rich flavours of a variety of cultures and nationalities, bring the entire home community together in an immersive celebration of diversity.”

“I have always advocated to the team that we are privileged to cook for our residents.  At home they would eat food that they have grown up with, and that has played a pivotal role in key moments throughout their lives. Living in a care environment doesn’t mean that they can no longer enjoy the food that brings them joy, and that’s why my team and I work so hard to ensure that each resident is treated as an individual.”

For more information on the support available visit Signature Dining.