New training initiative helps raise standards in care catering across Fife

A new training initiative, designed to enhance the quality of meals provided in residential care homes, has been launched through a partnership between Fife Council, Fife Health and Social Care Partnership (FHSCP) and City of Glasgow College.

The two-day course, the first of its kind in Scotland to be specifically tailored to the care catering sector, has brought together around 30 catering staff from Fife's eight residential care homes.

Developed through Fife Council's membership of the National Association of Care Catering, the programme aims to strengthen skills, build confidence and support greater consistency across care home kitchens.

The training forms part of an ongoing commitment to workforce development and upskilling care home catering staff, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills needed to meet the changing needs of residents.

The initiative focuses on helping staff deliver high-quality, nutritious meals that are full of flavour and choice, while meeting the individual dietary requirements of residents.

Participants explored every stage of the food delivery journey, considering how meals can be adapted and presented to reflect the nutritional needs, personal preferences and dining abilities of each resident.

The course encouraged staff to think creatively about menu planning and presentation, while also considering practical factors such as kitchen skills, equipment requirements, delivery methods and value for money.

Through a series of case studies, those taking part examined how small changes in preparation and presentation can significantly enhance the dining experience for residents.

A highlight of the programme was a demonstration where participants saw a single dish presented in three different ways: a standard presentation, an International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) compliant version designed for people with swallowing difficulties, and a cutlery-free finger-food option to support residents with varying needs and abilities.

The programme reflects a shared commitment to improving standards, developing skills and supporting innovation in care home catering from all partners.

Fife Council Spokesperson for Health and Social Care Cllr Patrick Browne said:

"Good food is at the heart of quality care. This innovative programme provides our catering teams with new skills, knowledge and ideas that will help enhance the dining experience for people living in our residential care homes.

"By investing in our staff, we are investing in the wellbeing of our residents and ensuring they continue to receive nutritious meals that meet their individual needs and preferences.

"We are delighted that Fife Council is among the first local authorities to take part in this programme. Working collaboratively with our partners has enabled us to provide a unique learning opportunity that will have lasting benefits for both staff and residents."

Lynne Garvey, Director of Fife Health and Social Care Partnership said: "Meal times are an important part of daily life and can have a significant impact on a person's health, wellbeing and quality of life.

"This initiative demonstrates our shared commitment to supporting staff to deliver person-centred care, ensuring residents receive meals that are not only nutritious but enjoyable and tailored to their needs.

"By bringing together expertise from across health, social care, catering and education, this programme supports our ambition to continuously improve services and enhance the experience of people living in our care homes."