NACC launches national webinars and forum to boost care catering expertise
The National Association of Care Catering (NACC) has announced an exciting new initiative aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of catering professionals within the care sector. The organisation is set to launch a series of national webinars designed to offer accessible, topic-focused online learning opportunities. This initiative comes in response to feedback gathered from NACC members, who have expressed the need for more resources to tackle the unique challenges faced in care catering.
These webinars are intended to foster best practice sharing and professional development, addressing crucial issues while allowing professionals to participate from their workplaces. Neel Radia, the chair of NACC, emphasised the programme’s significance, stating, “This forms part of our wider commitment to deliver meaningful member benefits and provides tangible training and advice without our members having to leave their place of work.” The first session, titled ‘Recruitment & Retention in Care Catering’, is set to take place on 26th June 2025, with future sessions planned to further support ongoing professional development.
In addition to the webinars, the NACC is organising its Training & Development Forum, scheduled for 1-2 October 2025 at the East Midlands Conference Centre in Nottingham. This event represents a key opportunity for care catering professionals to engage with a wide range of relevant topics through workshops, cookery demonstrations, and insightful presentations from industry experts. Early bookings are encouraged, with discounts available for those who register by 31st March 2025.
The agenda for the forum is robust, featuring themes such as sustainability in care kitchens, recruitment and retention strategies, and innovative menu development. Notably, the NACC is prioritising discussions around the Care Quality Commission’s Single Assessment Framework, aiming to equip delegates with current best practices that can be applied in their establishments. Over 20 expert speakers and more than 50 suppliers are anticipated to participate, providing a comprehensive platform for knowledge exchange.
The emphasis on sustainability is particularly important as the care sector faces increasing pressures to reduce its environmental footprint. The incorporation of sustainable practices not only benefits the environment but also enhances the quality of life for residents through better food sourcing and production methods.
As the landscape of care catering evolves, these initiatives from the NACC represent a proactive approach to addressing ongoing challenges and opportunities within the sector. By equipping professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge, the NACC is fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, ensuring that care catering services not only meet but exceed the expectations of residents and regulatory bodies alike.