The National Association of Care Catering (NACC) has launched a dedicated training workshop in a bid to help care professionals better cater for those with dementia.

The one-day training course will be delivered by Dr David Sheard, CEO and founder of Dementia Care Matters, and hopes to teach providers how to turn mealtimes into meaningful experiences.

Workshops will take place on Thursday 1st December 2016 at Aimia Food Limited in Haydock, Merseyside, and Friday 3rd February 2017 at Brakes in Covent Garden, London.

Neel Radia, National Chair of the NACC, said: “It’s been widely reported that the number of people living with a dementia is rising. It’s therefore so important that all care providers, whether in a residential care home or in the community, are fully-equipped with the right knowledge and tools to give meaningful, life-quality-enhancing care. Mealtimes play a huge role in this. The difference between an experience- and task-driven mealtime is enormous, with the former having an immensely positive impact on an individual with a dementia.  

“Training is vital when it comes to meeting the specific challenges of catering for older people who may be vulnerable and the NACC is committed to supporting the sector with relevant, progressive information and guidance.  

“The new workshops will challenge the status quo and offer new perspectives and approaches to ensure those people living with a dementia thrive through positive food and mealtime experiences. Dr David Sheard is inspirational and I guarantee the sessions will be enjoyable and emotional, and most importantly beneficial to those living with a dementia entrusted to our care.”