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Angeliki Papadaki

Age Concern Sandwich Meals on Wheels service

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Provider in Focus | Age Concern Sandwich Meals on Wheels service

Discussion took place on 30th April 2026

This month, we’re speaking with Ben Garratt, Chief Officer at Age Concern Sandwich, about delivering a volunteer-led Meals on Wheels service in a largely rural area – and the realities of sustaining a service that is both operationally complex and critically important.

Freshly prepared main meal and side dishes

Freshly prepared main meal and side dishes at Age Concern Sandwich

A local service with a vital role

The service delivers freshly cooked hot meals to over 50 residents in Sandwich (Kent) and surrounding areas, covering a rural catchment of around five miles.

With around 30 meals delivered per day across four routes, the service relies heavily on volunteers to ensure meals reach those who need them.

As Ben explains, the offer goes far beyond food:

“We pride ourselves in cooking a fresh cooked meal and providing it hot and ready to eat – but it’s also about seeing friendly faces, checking up on people, and making sure they’re okay.”

The service primarily supports people over 50 who are unable to shop or cook for themselves, including older adults and those recovering from hospital discharge.

“We’re so crucial, our sector, to helping people. And we’re crucial to the NHS because we help prevent people ending up in hospital. But we don’t get enough support, not anymore, not like we used to. That’s one of the problems we face. It’s a cost issue.” 

Image: Preparing for the day’s Meals on Wheels deliveries at Age Concern Sandwich

More than a meal: relationships and reassurance

A key strength of the service lies in the relationships built between volunteers and clients.

Volunteers don’t just deliver meals. They get to know the people they visit, notice changes, and feed this back to the team where needed.

This ongoing contact allows the service to:

  • Provide reassurance to clients and families
  • Identify emerging needs
  • Signpost or refer to other services where appropriate

“There’s a reason why someone needs that meal. You get to know them, understand their situation, and notice if something changes… their mood, their behaviour… and then you can act on that.”

A freshly prepared hot meal ready for delivery

A freshly prepared hot meal ready for delivery at Age Concern Sandwich

Volunteer-led, communication-driven

Unlike some services, Age Concern Sandwich does not rely on digital systems or route-planning software.

Instead, the service is built on strong communication and local knowledge.

In a rural setting, this is essential – especially when unexpected disruptions occur.

Ben reflects:

“If there’s roadworks, it can completely throw a route out. So the drivers let us know, and we work it out together. It’s all about communication.”

New volunteers are supported through shadowing and gradually introduced to routes, helping them build familiarity with both clients and local geography. 

This also helps ensure continuity for clients:

“It’s not a strange person at the door.”

Operating in a challenging environment

Like many Meals on Wheels providers, the Age Concern Sandwich service faces ongoing challenges, particularly around:

  • Recruiting and retaining volunteers
  • Rising operational costs
  • Maintaining financial sustainability

“Finding sufficient volunteers is an ongoing challenge. We continue advertising for volunteers in all media platforms, but it’s a massive challenge – we couldn’t run the service without our volunteer drivers.”

At the same time, Ben highlights how wider economic pressures are being felt across the charitable Meals on Wheels sector:

“We have to keep an eye out on costs all the time. With rising costs, national insurance, wages… it’s getting really difficult for charities. A lot are under pressure. But the Meals on Wheels service we offer is a seriously crucial service. A lot of people don’t realise it. People just think someone’s getting a bit of dinner turning up for free, and that they don’t have to cook it… but there is a vast amount of people that are just not capable of cooking that dinner because of their disabilities and their frailty…”

Despite this, the service closely monitors its financial position, aiming to remain sustainable while continuing to deliver a high-quality offer. However, Ben reflects on the need for more support:

Freshly prepared dessert served with custard

Freshly prepared dessert served with custard at Age Concern Sandwich

“More financial support from government and from the NHS… when they ask us to do things to help them, the funding should be better to reflect the costs that we incur.”

Why the service matters

Ben is clear about the wider role Meals on Wheels plays – not only for individuals, but for the health and care system: 

“If the service wasn’t there, people would end up in hospital more. Social care would have to take over. It would cost the state more.”

Nutrition is a central part of this:

“A fresh, nutritious meal is really important. Without that, people’s health and wellbeing would go downhill.”

Without services like this, he suggests, people’s health can quickly decline – with wider consequences for individuals, families, and the system as a whole.

Looking ahead

While the service is currently stable, Ben reflects on the wider pressures facing the sector: 

“It’s going to be a very challenging year for charities. Some services may not survive – and that’s not good for anyone.” 

He highlights the need for: 

  • Greater recognition of the sector’s value
  • More consistent support
  • Better alignment between expectations and funding

Advice for other providers

For people considering developing a new Meals on Wheels service, Ben advises: 

“Make sure it’s good quality, nutritious food. People need to enjoy it – it matters.”

And if an existing Meals on Wheels service came to Ben for advice, he reflects:

“Always review your prices, always review your suppliers, always have a backup, always have a contingency plan because things can go wrong.”

Ben’s question to other Meals on Wheels providers

“How do you manage staff and volunteer costs within your service – and how does this influence what you charge?”

This reflects a key area of interest and challenge, particularly as different models (volunteer-led vs. paid delivery) shape how services operate and remain sustainable.

Learn more about the Age Concern Sandwich Meals on Wheels service
Contact: office@ageconcernsandwich.com | 01304 614 237

Do you run a Meals on Wheels service and have thoughts or experience to share? Join the conversation with other Meals on Wheels providers via our WhatsApp Community.

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Fife Council Meals on Wheels

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Provost of Fife, Cllr Jim Leishman (former player and manager of Dunfermline Athletic Football Club), delivering to a local Meals on Wheels client and fellow Dunfermline Athletic fan during the National Association of Care Catering (NACC) National Meals on Wheels Week

Provider in Focus | Fife Council Meals on Wheels

Discussion took place on 8th May 2026

This month, we’re speaking with Andrew Stokes, Service Manager at Fife Council, about delivering one of Scotland’s largest Meals on Wheels services on behalf of the Fife Health and Social Care Partnership, and supporting over 600 customers a day across a large and diverse local authority area, the 3rd largest in Scotland.

Operating from three production kitchens across West, Central and East Fife, with a team of around 50 staff and an all-electric delivery fleet of around 30 bespoke vans, the service combines large-scale logistics with something much more personal: daily wellbeing checks, social connection, and support for people to remain independent at home.

A large-scale service rooted in community support

Fife Council’s Meals on Wheels service delivers approximately 600 meals and 150 afternoon teas per day, across 363 days a year.

The service supports a wide range of residents, although the majority are adults over pensionable age.

“It might be people who’ve been in hospital for a period of time and they need that kind of short-term support… and often that short term support leads into them staying with us longer term because they like the service, the quality of food, that social interaction.”

Unlike many services, all Meals on Wheels drivers in Fife are paid council employees.

“We’re all public servants. We’re all paid to serve the residents and the people of Fife.”

Andrew explains that this gives the service stability and continuity, with many drivers bringing significant life skills and experience and a strong sense of public service commitment to the role.

Provost of Fife, Cllr Jim Leishman (former player and manager of Dunfermline Athletic Football Club), delivering to a local Meals on Wheels client and fellow Dunfermline Athletic fan during the National Association of Care Catering (NACC) National Meals on Wheels Week

“If the Meals on Wheels service stopped in Fife today, what would those 600 customers do tomorrow? The majority of them wouldn’t be able to sustain themselves in their own home independently, having nutritious meals. Some of them may need to go into long term residential care. But that’s expensive and also there may not be the capacity for them to go in. And this places added pressure on social care finances… home care… they may not have the capacity either due to their own resource and recruitment challenges.” 

Image: Provost of Fife, Cllr Jim Leishman (former player and manager of Dunfermline Athletic Football Club), delivering to a local Meals on Wheels client and fellow Dunfermline Athletic fan during the National Association of Care Catering (NACC) National Meals on Wheels Week

More than delivering food

Although meals are central to the service, Andrew repeatedly returns to the wider role drivers play in people’s daily lives.

Drivers will identify concerns and escalate them where needed – whether to their supervisors, housing colleagues, social work teams, or emergency services. The service also provides reassurance to families, particularly those living far away.

“Obviously, as we know, it’s much more than just a meal. It’s that welfare check, it’s that social contact, it’s having a wee blether between our Drivers and our clients.”


“It’s that sense of comfort for families… knowing that their relatives are getting nutritious food and that check and that social connection every day.”

Andrew reflects that the true impact of Meals on Wheels may be impossible to fully measure:

“It’s taken financial pressure off of very stretched health and social care budgets in terms of people remaining living independently in their own homes. But I still don’t think we actually know what it truly means to people and their families, because it’s very personal to them. We’ve got the generic evidence or assumptions or views, but I think there’ll be much more than that if we were to dig deeper.”

Alan, one of Fife's Meals on Wheels Drivers, proudly showing off his bespoke delivery van

Alan, one of Fife’s Meals on Wheels Drivers, preparing to deliver meals in the community and proudly showing off his bespoke delivery van

Reliability in all conditions

One of the strongest themes throughout our conversation is the determination and resilience of the Meals on Wheels team.

Fife regularly experiences severe winter weather, storms and difficult conditions – yet missed deliveries are extremely rare.

“The Meals on Wheels drivers just see it as a challenge. I always phone my team manager and say, ‘How many missed deliveries?’, and she’ll say, ‘None.’ They were all delivered. Drivers just find a way.”

Andrew believes this reflects both the commitment of the workforce and the culture within the service.

“The thing that always strikes me about the Meals on Wheels team is just their passion and their own commitment to ensuring that our most elderly and vulnerable are supported and cared for.”

He also highlights the importance of investing in staff through training, supportive management, and strong employment conditions.

Every new driver receives a full induction covering: 

  • Safeguarding and adult protection
  • Vehicle safety
  • Council expectations and behaviours
  • Shadowing and route familiarisation

 

Andrew Stokes, Service Manager, and Stella Stewart, Hospitality Team Manager, delivering thank-you gifts to one of their local Meals on Wheels kitchens during last year’s National Association of Care Catering (NACC) National Meals on Wheels Week

Andrew Stokes, Service Manager, and Stella Stewart, Hospitality Team Manager, delivering thank-you gifts to one of their local Meals on Wheels kitchens during last year’s National Association of Care Catering (NACC) National Meals on Wheels Week

Adapting and evolving the service

The Fife Council Meals on Wheels service recently introduced a new digital management system to support route planning, delivery management and data collection.

Andrew explains that while technology offers opportunities, introducing change needs to be carefully managed:

“We were mindful of the workforce that we’ve got and some of them are perhaps not all digitally confident. We didn’t want that to overwhelm the staff.”

Instead, the team is gradually building confidence and exploring how data and digital tools could help strengthen the service in the future.

Andrew and his colleagues are also thinking more broadly about how Meals on Wheels may need to evolve over time.

“To sustain it and modernise it, I think there is something around what else the service can offer.”

This includes exploring wider wellbeing support, helping people remain active at home, and wider preventative approaches to ageing well.

Operational challenges and rising pressures

Like many providers, Fife Council’s service has faced increasing operational and financial pressures in recent years, including overheads, staffing and energy costs. 

“Fleet costs, obviously a massive cost to any Meals on Wheels provider. It was one of the big reasons we decided to go all electric. One, because of our climate change and net zero ambitions as an organisation, but also to reduce what is now hugely expensive fuel costs.”

Despite increases in food supply costs, the service currently operates with a significant public subsidy to ensure meals remain affordable for customers.

“If we were a commercial operation, you would look to offsetting costs by increasing the charges by up to 30%. This would make it unaffordable for many of our customers.”

One of the most significant operational challenges recently came following packaging changes introduced by their food supplier. The shift from foil trays to plastic CPET containers created issues around transport stability, heat retention, and delivery logistics.

“The team had to be really creative. We ended up wrapping some of the new plastic trays in foil. The workaround then becomes the norm. It doesn’t fix the issue… but people just find ways to keep things moving.”

Andrew credits the persistence of frontline staff for helping the service adapt while maintaining continuity for customers.

Why the service matters

Reflecting on the wider role of Meals on Wheels within health and social care, Andrew is clear about the consequences for hospital admissions and social care demand if services were not available.

Andrew also believes broader conversations are needed about access to nutritious food more generally. He reflects on the frustrations of trying to sustain and defend essential frontline Meals on Wheels services. 

“There’s always typically a focus on school meals, which is a statutory responsibility. There’s additional funding that’s come in for school meals from the Scottish Government. But there’s a discussion around, ‘why should feeding elderly and vulnerable people, in their own homes, be any different?’. We need to be talking about feeding those in need across communities in general, whether it’s children and young people, whether it’s elderly, vulnerable people, whether it’s those families who at school holidays, their children don’t get access to school meals. Everybody has the right to good quality, nutritious, tasty food.” 

For Andrew, Meals on Wheels is part of a much bigger issue around dignity, nutrition, loneliness, and community connection.

“How do we reconnect communities around food?”

Lynne Garvie, Director of Health & Social Care Partnership, meeting with Karen Lessels, Meals on Wheels Driver, and Stella Stewart, Hospitality Team Manager, at one of their local Meals on Wheels kitchens during the National Association of Care Catering (NACC) National Meals on Wheels Week

Lynne Garvie, Director of Health & Social Care Partnership, meeting with Karen Lessels, Meals on Wheels Driver, and Stella Stewart, Hospitality Team Manager, at one of their local Meals on Wheels kitchens during the National Association of Care Catering (NACC) National Meals on Wheels Week

Looking ahead

Andrew believes the future sustainability of Meals on Wheels will depend on innovation, collaboration, visibility, and evidencing the service’s value.

He stresses the importance of continuing to showcase the service and share evidence of impact.

“There’s a challenge when you work in the public sector that you don’t always shout about or show off what you do, as it’s expected of us as public sector organisations. But the more that we can showcase the service and celebrate it and shine a light on it, the more it gets into focus.” 

Andrew also reflects on the value of human connection, and the importance of having time to simply sit and talk.


“If we had some more staff… The utopia would be for the drivers to be able to spend a little bit more time with the clients who would like and need a little bit more time.” 

Advice for other providers

For people considering developing a new Meals on Wheels service, Andrew advises: 

“Focus on nutrition and social connection together. Meals on Wheels is not just about delivering food – it’s about supporting people to remain connected, independent, and well.”

He also reflects on the importance of challenging misconceptions around who Meals on Wheels is for, and what modern services can offer. He believes there is still significant misunderstanding around eligibility, affordability, and the wider value of the service.

And if an existing Meals on Wheels provider came to Andrew for advice, he emphasises the importance of visible leadership:

“You need to be out there, you need to be speaking to people, you need to build up that trust, that confidence, that credibility. And use any influence that you might have, the connections that you’ve got, to support the service.”

He also stresses the importance of spending time within the service itself, to understand operational realities, workforce pressures, customer experience and frontline challenges:

“You need a real understanding of the issues, the challenges, and the people delivering the service before you start to manage the service.”

Andrew’s question to other Meals on Wheels providers

“What does the future of Meals on Wheels look like? And how can we work together to ensure services remain sustainable and relevant in the years ahead?”

This reflects one of the strongest themes throughout our discussion: not just how services operate today, but how the sector continues to evolve in response to changing communities, technologies and expectations.

Learn more about the Fife Council Meals on Wheels service
Contact: sw.enquiries@fife.gov.uk | 03451 551 503

Do you run a Meals on Wheels service and have thoughts or experience to share? Join the conversation with other Meals on Wheels providers via our WhatsApp Community.

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CAMMS Meals on Wheels Ltd

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A CAMMS Meals on Wheels team member delivering a meal to a client at home

Provider in Focus | CAMMS Meals on Wheels Ltd

Discussion took place on 6th May 2026

This month, we’re speaking with Justina Augustaviciute, Charity Manager of CAMMS Meals on Wheels Ltd, a service operating in Cambridgeshire.

In this Provider in Focus, Justina shares what it takes to run a Meals on Wheels service across Cambridgeshire and Fenland – from managing rural delivery routes (covering 50-60 villages across Cambridgeshire) and rising costs, to reaching isolated older people and supporting families from afar.

Justina Augustaviciute, Manager of CAMMS Meals on Wheels Ltd, attending a local community event to raise awareness of the service

Justina Augustaviciute, Manager of CAMMS Meals on Wheels, attending a local community event to raise awareness of the service

Delivering more than a meal

CAMMS Meals on Wheels delivers hot meals across a large rural area, operating from two bases and reaching people across Cambridgeshire and Fenland.

The service supports mainly older adults who want to remain living independently at home but need support with accessing or preparing food.

As Justina explains, the service is about far more than delivering meals:

“We provide welfare checks, which I think is sometimes more important than the hot meal deliveries.”

Drivers are DBS-checked and, where appropriate, trusted with key safe access so they can respond if a customer is unwell, unable to answer the door, or has had a fall.

“We have unfortunately had cases where the drivers did enter the house and found our customers unconscious or after a fall… this is where I think our service becomes vital.”

The service also provides reassurance to families – particularly those living far away from relatives.

“The service is not only for the people themselves – it’s for their contacts, their children… many live far away, even abroad. Meals on Wheels is a lifesaver.”

A CAMMS Meals on Wheels team member delivering a meal to a client at home

“I’m not saying we are the most important service in the world, but we are extremely important… I can’t even imagine what would happen with quite a few of our clients if Meals on Wheels wasn’t here.” 

Image: A CAMMS Meals on Wheels team member delivering a meal to a client at home

A familiar face and a daily routine

Justina describes how important daily contact can become for many customers.

For some, the delivery driver may be:

  • The only person they see that day
  • A source of routine and reassurance
  • An important connection to the outside world

“We have people literally coming outside and waiting for the drivers to come.”


“Meeting the delivery driver every day, sometimes seven days a week, becomes an essential part of their life.”

One of the CAMMS Meals on Wheels Ltd drivers preparing to deliver meals in the community

One of the CAMMS Meals on Wheels drivers preparing to deliver meals in the community

Running a flexible service in a challenging environment

Operating across rural areas brings logistical challenges, but Justina emphasises that flexibility is key.

New referrals are carefully matched to routes, with office staff and drivers working closely together to manage capacity and geography.

“We have a system, but it’s also very much run by people.”

At the same time, the service faces increasing financial pressures. Like many providers, CAMMS Meals on Wheels has experienced: 

  • Rising supplier costs
  • Increased fuel prices
  • Higher staffing costs and national insurance contributions
  • Declining new inquiries following price increases

“We are left to manage these things on our own… it’s very difficult to pay for supplies, pay drivers’ wages, and still remain not-for-profit.”

 

Meals being prepared and packed for delivery as part of the daily CAMMS Meals on Wheels Ltd service

Meals being prepared and packed for delivery as part of the daily CAMMS Meals on Wheels service

Justina is clear that raising awareness and attracting new customers is becoming increasingly important for sustainability.

Marketing and visibility matter

One of the strongest themes throughout our discussion is the importance of visibility and community engagement.

Justina spends significant time promoting the service directly in local communities.

“If you don’t have a lot of funds for paid advertising, you have to do it yourself… my tip is never give up on the hard work.”

One practical approach that has worked well is targeted leafleting.

“If you already have a customer in a particular area, make sure you deliver leaflets nearby as well.”

This helps reduce additional mileage costs while reaching people who may benefit from the service.

Representatives from CAMMS Meals on Wheels Ltd attending a local community event, helping to raise awareness of Meals on Wheels services and connect with potential supporters and partners

Representatives from CAMMS Meals on Wheels attending a local community event, helping to raise awareness of Meals on Wheels services and connect with potential supporters and partners

To help raise awareness, the service also uses:

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Networking events
  • Community contacts
  • Local organisations and community navigators

“We need to make sure people know we exist and how to find us.”

The role of communities and local connections

Justina highlights the importance of building relationships with people already embedded within communities. 

This includes:

  • Community navigators
  • Churches and community centres
  • Cafés and local businesses
  • Social prescribers and neighbourhood organisations

These local connections can help providers identify:

  • Who may benefit from the service
  • How to reach isolated individuals and families


“The people who are known in the community need to be contacted the most.”

Why the service matters

Reflecting on the wider role of Meals on Wheels, Justina points to both the health and social care impact of the service. 

“There has been great research showing fewer hospital admissions with Meals on Wheels provision.” 

But she also emphasises something that is often overlooked: the support provided to families and unpaid carers.

“Meals on Wheels is a peace of mind for families… at least they know their relative will receive a hot meal and someone will notice if something is wrong and notify them.”

When asked what would happen if the CAMMS service did not exist, she pauses before answering: 

“I honestly don’t know… Some of the people, and that I know for sure, they are completely lonely, completely unable to provide food for themselves, to get the supplies and to cook and reheat the food… I think it would be much worse than it is now.” 

Looking ahead

Justina believes providers would benefit greatly from stronger opportunities to connect and learn from one another. She would welcome:

  • More opportunities for peer learning
  • Shared marketing ideas
  • Easier communication between providers
  • Stronger platforms for evidencing impact

“It would be great if there was a network – a sort of Meals on Wheels hub – where providers and service managers could easily communicate and share ideas.” 

She also reflects honestly on the emotional labour involved in running a not-for-profit service. 


“You put a lot of work in to receive maybe 20% of the result you would in a for-profit organisation… it’s like chasing the wind in a field – you still need to get the result but with very few resources. I learnt the hard way that more punches will be thrown at you than praise. But you keep going because you care.” 

Advice for other providers

For people considering developing a new Meals on Wheels service, Justina advises: 

“Be flexible. Have your system set, but allow it to bend.”

She explains that rigid step-by-step systems often do not reflect the realities of running a community-based service supporting vulnerable people.

“In charities, step-by-step guides do not work.”

And if an existing Meals on Wheels service came to Justina for advice, she emphasises the importance of: 

  • Flexibility in staffing and operations
  • Balancing workloads carefully
  • Avoiding unnecessary complexity
  • Remaining open-minded about how services are organised

She also highlights the importance of building strong communication across teams and maintaining a people-centred approach when working with clients and families.

Justina’s question to other Meals on Wheels providers

“What has been the most effective way of marketing your Meals on Wheels service – and who do you find is the most important audience to reach?”

This reflects one of the key challenges discussed throughout our conversation: ensuring people know services exist and understand how they can help.

Learn more about the CAMMS Meals on Wheels service
Contact: enquiries@cammsmealsonwheels.org | 01223 314 288

Do you run a Meals on Wheels service and have thoughts or experience to share? Join the conversation with other Meals on Wheels providers via our WhatsApp Community.

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What information should Meals on Wheels providers include on their websites?

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A photo of an elderly couple being guided through making meal choices by a carer

Resources | What information should Meals on Wheels providers include on their websites?

Developed by the Meals on Wheels UK project, University of Bristol.

When someone is looking for Meals on Wheels, they often start online. This might be an older person, a family member, a carer, a social worker, a hospital discharge team, or another referrer.

Research from the Meals on Wheels UK project at the University of Bristol found that people value clear, practical information when deciding whether a service is suitable. This includes information about the meals, what support is provided, reliability and flexibility around the meal deliveries, and cost.

This checklist is designed to help providers make their websites clearer, more useful, and easier to act on.

Why this matters

Clear online information can help people:

  • understand whether your service is right for them or someone they support
  • make referrals more confidently
  • reduce unnecessary phone or email enquiries
  • compare options where more than one service is available
  • access support earlier

Even simple changes (such as making your delivery area, contact details, costs, and eligibility criteria easy to find) can make a real difference.

Website information checklist for Meals on Wheels providers

  1. Basic service information

Include:

  • Name of the service
  • Type of provider, e.g. council-run, charity, social enterprise, private provider
  • Delivery areas covered
  • Full address and postcode, where appropriate
  • Whether the information on the page is up to date
  • State when the page was last reviewed or updated

Tip: If you only deliver to certain postcodes, villages, towns, or neighbourhoods, list these clearly and keep these up to date.

2. Contact details

Make it easy for people to get in touch.

Include:

  • Telephone number
  • A working email address
  • Contact form, if available
  • Opening hours for enquiries
  • Expected response time, if possible
  • What to do if someone cannot get through

Tip: Families and referrers often need to make decisions quickly. If your inbox or phone line is not monitored daily, say when people can expect a response.

3. Who the service is for

Explain who can use the service.

Include:

  • Main target population
  • Age criteria, if any
  • Whether you support people with disabilities, dementia, mental health conditions, recovery after hospital discharge, or other needs
  • Whether people can self-refer
  • Whether referrals are accepted from family members, carers, social workers, NHS teams, or others
  • Whether an assessment is required

Tip: Avoid assuming people know they are “eligible”. Spell it out clearly.

4. Meals provided

People want to know what they will actually receive.

Include:

  • Type of meals, e.g. hot, chilled, frozen, or a mix
  • Whether any preparation is required to eat the meal (e.g. reheating in the microwave/ stove/ oven)
  • Number of courses (e.g. main and dessert or soup and a main)
  • Whether the service provides lunch only or meals for other eating occasions too (e.g. light breakfast for the next day)
  • Whether light meals, sandwiches, desserts, snacks, or tea-time options are available
  • How often the menu changes or rotates (e.g. variety of meals)
  • How many choices are available per meal (e.g. choice of two mains and two desserts)
  • Sample online menus
  • Portion sizes, if appropriate
  • Nutritional information, where available
  • Food hygiene rating

Tip: A sample menu can be very helpful.

5. Dietary needs and preferences

Include:

  • Whether you cater for specific diets
  • Provide examples, e.g. vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, texture-modified, diabetic-friendly, low salt, cultural or religious dietary needs
  • How allergies are handled
  • How people should tell you about dietary requirements
  • Whether meals can be adapted to meet specific individual needs or preferences

Tip: If you cannot cater for certain needs, say so clearly and kindly.

6. What support is provided alongside the meal

Meals on Wheels is often valued because it is more than food.

Include whether you provide:

  • Wellbeing checks
  • Social contact
  • Escalation of concerns to family, carers, and/ or professionals
  • Plating up the meal
  • Cutting up food
  • Prompting or reminding, where appropriate (e.g. to have a drink or to take medication)
  • Signposting to other services
  • Additional support, such as delivering basic groceries or providing other practical help
  • Who delivers the meals (e.g. if the drivers are DBS-checked, or if it’s usually the same driver delivering to someone)

Tip: Explain what happens if a driver or volunteer is concerned about someone’s wellbeing.

7. Delivery frequency and timing

Include:

  • Days of delivery
  • Whether weekend or bank holiday meal deliveries are available
  • Typical time window of the delivery
  • Whether delivery times can vary
  • Minimum number of meals per week, if any
  • Whether short-term support is available, e.g. after hospital discharge
  • How much notice is needed to start, pause, or cancel the service, or change meals

Tip: Reliability and flexibility were highlighted in our research as important information for people considering Meals on Wheels.

8. Cost and payment

Be as clear as possible.

Include:

  • Cost per meal
  • What is included in the price
  • Whether delivery is included
  • Whether prices differ by number of courses or meal type
  • Whether subsidies or funding support are available
  • Payment options, e.g. direct debit, card, invoice, phone payment, pay-as-you-go
  • When payment is taken, e.g. in advance or in arrears
  • What happens if someone has difficulty paying

Tip: Cost is one of the key pieces of information people value when deciding whether to access a service.

9. How to start using the service

Make the next step obvious.

Include:

  • How to enquire
  • How to refer someone
  • What information is needed to register
  • How quickly the service can usually start
  • Whether a trial period is available
  • Who can complete the referral
  • What happens after someone gets in touch

Tip: A simple “Start a referral” button or short online form can make the process easier.

10. Testimonials and real experiences

Including short testimonials or real-life examples can help people understand what your service is like in practice.

These might include:

  • feedback from people receiving the service (including about the taste and quality of the meals)
  • comments from family members or carers
  • examples of how the service has supported someone
  • short quotes highlighting reliability, quality of food, or wellbeing support

Tip: Keep testimonials short, clear, and anonymised where appropriate. Focus on real experiences that reflect what people value most about the service.

Quick website check

Before publishing, ask:

  • Can someone find your delivery area in under 30 seconds?
  • Can they see how much the service costs?
  • Can they tell whether you provide wellbeing checks?
  • Can they find a working phone number or email address?
  • Can a family member or referrer understand how to start the service?
  • Is the page written in plain language?
  • Has the page been checked recently?

Based on research and provider experience

This checklist is based on findings from research by the Meals on Wheels UK project at the University of Bristol, and ongoing engagement with Meals on Wheels providers, service users, and referrers.

In a qualitative study with service users and referrers, participants highlighted the importance of clear information about meals, services provided, reliability and flexibility around the meal deliveries, and cost, when considering accessing Meals on Wheels.

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Help us to improve this resource

We know that many services are already doing excellent work to make information accessible online, and that there are different ways of presenting this effectively.

If there’s something we’ve missed, or if your website includes features that have made it easier for people to find and use your service, we would really value hearing from you.

Please share your ideas via our WhatsApp Community.  

Your input will help us keep this resource practical, relevant, and shaped by Meals on Wheels providers.

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What makes Meals on Wheels different from other meal delivery services?

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A photo of an elderly couple being guided through making meal choices by a carer

Resources | What makes Meals on Wheels different from other meal delivery services?

Developed by the Meals on Wheels UK project, University of Bristol.

Why this matters

People often compare Meals on Wheels with other types of meal delivery, such as supermarket deliveries or prepared meal services.

While these services can be useful, Meals on Wheels offers something different.

This guide helps providers clearly explain that difference to families, professionals, and decision-makers.

Meals on Wheels: more than food delivery

Meals on Wheels combines food provision with support.

Alongside meals, services provide:

  • regular, reliable contact
  • wellbeing checks
  • informal monitoring of changes in health or behaviour
  • reassurance for families and carers
  • support to remain independent at home

What makes it different?

Meals on WheelsOther forms of meal delivery
Regular, consistent contactOne-off or irregular delivery
Known driver or volunteerAnonymous courier
Wellbeing checksNo monitoring
Safeguarding roleNo safeguarding function
Supports independenceFocused on food only
Builds relationships over timeTransactional service

How to explain this in practice 

Some providers find it helpful to use simple comparisons:

  • “It’s not just a delivery – it’s someone checking in regularly”
  • “It’s a relationship, not a one-off service”
  • “It combines food with care and support”

Why this difference matters

This distinction is important because Meals on Wheels:

  • helps identify issues early
  • supports people who may otherwise struggle to eat
  • provides reassurance to families
  • contributes to wider health and care outcomes

When this is particularly important

Meals on Wheels may be especially valuable for people who:

  • live alone
  • have limited mobility
  • are recovering from illness
  • are at risk of malnutrition
  • need regular contact or reassurance

Final note

Other meal delivery services may meet some needs. However, Meals on Wheels provides a broader, more supportive offer for people who require more than food alone.

Download this resource as a PDF

Help us to improve this resource

This guide has been developed based on research and ongoing engagement with Meals on Wheels providers, alongside insights from people who use the service and those who refer to it.

We recognise that providers often need to explain how Meals on Wheels differs from other forms of meal delivery (whether to families, professionals, or local partners) and that this can vary depending on local context.

We would really value your input to help ensure this resource reflects the ways services are described and understood in practice.

If you have found effective ways of explaining what makes your service different, we would be very interested to hear from you.

You might wish to share:

  • how you describe your service to families or carers
  • how you explain the difference to professionals or referrers
  • comparisons or examples that have helped people understand the value of the service
  • feedback you’ve received from people using your service

We are particularly interested in simple, clear ways of communicating this – including short phrases, examples, or approaches that have worked well locally.

Please share your ideas via our WhatsApp Community.  

Your input will help us continue to develop resources that are practical, relevant, and shaped by Meals on Wheels providers across the UK.

Has this resource been useful?

Please share your feedback using the form below


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Using LinkedIn to raise awareness of your Meals on Wheels service

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A photo of an elderly couple being guided through making meal choices by a carer

Resources | Using LinkedIn to raise awareness of your Meals on Wheels service

Developed by the Meals on Wheels UK project, University of Bristol.

Why this matters

Many Meals on Wheels providers use platforms such as Facebook or Instagram to connect with their local communities.

However, LinkedIn offers a different opportunity.

LinkedIn is widely used by:

  • health and social care professionals
  • local authority staff
  • commissioners
  • charities and voluntary organisations
  • policymakers and researchers

This makes it a useful platform for raising awareness of Meals on Wheels among people who:

  • refer to services
  • influence funding and commissioning
  • shape local and national policy

What LinkedIn can be useful for

LinkedIn can help providers:

  • raise awareness of their service among professionals
  • share examples of day-to-day work
  • highlight the impact of Meals on Wheels
  • connect with local, national and international organisations
  • stay informed about wider developments in the sector

What to share

You do not need to post frequently or create complex content.

Focus on low-effort, day-to-day content. Simple updates can be effective, such as:

  • a short description of your service
  • photos of meals or delivery (where appropriate)
  • a simple update about your team or volunteers
  • brief examples of how your service supports people
  • participation in local events or initiatives

Keeping it simple 

Some providers find it helpful to:

  • post occasionally rather than regularly
  • keep posts short and factual
  • use plain language
  • focus on real examples from their service

You do not need to use LinkedIn in the same way as other organisations – even a small number of posts can help raise visibility.

Connecting with others

LinkedIn can also be used to:

  • connect with local professionals and organisations
  • follow relevant organisations (e.g. local authorities, charities, national and international bodies)
  • see how others are talking about Meals on Wheels

This can help providers stay informed and feel more connected to the wider sector.

Examples of useful content

Focus on visibility and influence:

  • sharing service developments or expansion
  • highlighting partnerships with local organisations
  • reflecting on demand or pressures facing the service
  • raising awareness of gaps in provision
  • contributing to wider conversations about ageing, care, or prevention

Final note

Using LinkedIn is optional, and may not be appropriate for all services.

However, for some providers, it can offer an additional way to raise awareness, connect with others, and share the impact of their work.

Download this resource as a PDF

Help us to improve this resource

This guide has been developed based on ongoing engagement with Meals on Wheels providers, alongside wider observations of how services and organisations are using digital platforms to connect with professionals and partners.

We recognise that providers have different levels of experience and confidence when it comes to using platforms like LinkedIn, and that approaches will vary depending on local context, capacity, and priorities.

We would really value your input to help ensure this resource reflects what is useful and realistic in practice.

If you are using LinkedIn (or have tried to), we would be very interested to hear about your experience.

You might wish to share:

  • how you currently use LinkedIn (if at all)
  • what has worked well for you
  • any challenges or barriers you’ve encountered
  • the type of content that has generated interest or engagement
  • whether LinkedIn has helped you connect with professionals, partners, or commissioners

We are particularly interested in simple, practical examples, including short posts, approaches, or small changes that have helped raise awareness of your service.

Please share your ideas via our WhatsApp Community.  

Your input will help us better understand how Meals on Wheels providers are using LinkedIn in practice, and shape future guidance that is relevant, realistic, and grounded in the experiences of the sector.

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How to make it easier for professionals to refer someone to Meals on Wheels

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A photograph of a meal delivery

Resources | How to make it easier for professionals to refer someone to Meals on Wheels

Developed by the Meals on Wheels UK project, University of Bristol.

Why this matters

Many people who could benefit from Meals on Wheels are identified by health and social care professionals, including social workers, GPs, hospital discharge teams, and community organisations.

However, referrals are not always straightforward. In some areas, there are:

  • no clear referral pathways
  • limited awareness of services
  • uncertainty about who is eligible

This can delay access to support.

Based on research and provider experience, this guide outlines simple ways providers can make it easier for professionals to refer people to Meals on Wheels.

  1. Make referral pathways clear

Ensure your website clearly explains:

  • who can refer (self, family, professionals)
  • how to refer (phone, email, online form)
  • what information is needed
  • how quickly the service can start

Tip: A simple ‘Refer someone’ button or page on your website could make a big difference.

2. Provide clear contact routes for professionals

Include:

  • a direct phone number
  • a monitored email address
  • response times
  • who professionals should contact

Tip: Professionals often need quick decisions – delays can result in missed referrals.

3. Explain who is likely to benefit

Professionals may not always know who Meals on Wheels is for.

Provide simple guidance, such as:

People who:

  • struggle to prepare meals
  • live alone without support
  • are recovering from illness or hospital discharge
  • are at risk of poor nutrition

4. Use simple referral criteria (where possible)

Some providers choose to share simple criteria or guidance.

You may wish to:

  • outline key indicators
  • describe typical characteristics of people who use your service
  • explain flexibility

5. Consider using a referral checklist

A structured checklist can support consistent and confident referrals.

The Meals on Wheels UK project has developed a simple referral checklist to support professionals in identifying individuals likely to benefit from the service.

The referral checklist is a University of Bristol licensed resource and can be downloaded free of charge here.

This checklist:

  • supports (but does not replace) professional judgement
  • is based on demographic and health-related indicators
  • can be used across health and social care settings

6. Build relationships with local professionals

Referrals often depend on awareness and trust.

You may wish to:

  • connect with local social care teams
  • engage with hospital discharge staff
  • attend local meetings or networks
  • provide short presentations or information

7. Make information easy to share

Professionals often pass information on to families.

Provide:

  • a clear webpage link
  • downloadable information
  • simple summaries of your service

8. Be clear about availability and capacity

Where possible, explain:

  • whether you are currently accepting referrals
  • waiting times
  • delivery coverage

This helps professionals make appropriate decisions.

Based on research and provider experience

Research has shown that people benefit most when access to Meals on Wheels is timely and straightforward. Clear referral pathways and accessible information can help ensure that individuals receive support when they need it.

Download this resource as a PDF

Help us to improve this resource

This guide has been developed based on research and ongoing engagement with Meals on Wheels providers, service users, and professionals who refer people to the service.

We know that referral pathways vary widely across the UK, and that many providers have developed practical and effective ways of working locally.

We would really value your input to help keep this resource relevant and grounded in real-world practice.

If you work with health and care professionals to enhance referrals to your service, we would be very interested to hear from you.

You might wish to share:

  • how professionals currently refer to your service
  • any changes you’ve made to simplify the process
  • examples of what has worked well locally
  • any challenges you’ve encountered

Please share your ideas via our WhatsApp Community.  

Your input will help us continue to develop practical, provider-informed resources for the sector.

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Please share your feedback using the form below


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Finding funding for Meals on Wheels services: where to start

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A young woman delivering a bag of groceries to a senior adult woman
A photograph of a meal delivery

Resources | Finding funding for Meals on Wheels services: where to start

Developed by the Meals on Wheels UK project, University of Bristol.

Why this matters

Many Meals on Wheels providers operate under significant financial pressure, with limited capacity to identify and apply for funding opportunities.

At the same time, a range of funding sources exist that may be relevant to services supporting:

  • older people
  • community wellbeing
  • health and prevention
  • social care and inclusion

This guide provides a simple starting point to help providers identify potential sources of funding.

Types of funding to consider

Funding opportunities for Meals on Wheels services often fall into the following categories:

  1. Charitable trusts and foundations

Many trusts fund work supporting older people, health, and community services.

Examples include:

2. Community and local funding

Some funds are region-specific and support local community services.

These may include:

  • local authority funds
  • regional trusts
  • community or environmental funds

3. Social enterprise and innovation funding

Some programmes support new ideas, service development, or scaling activity.

Examples include:

  • UnLtd (supports social entrepreneurs at different stages)

4. National and large-scale funding programmes

Larger funders may support research, innovation, or service development linked to policy priorities.

Examples include:

Getting started

Meals on Wheels providers may wish to:

  • identify funders aligned with their service (e.g. older people, health, community support)
  • start with smaller grants before applying for larger funding
  • build partnerships where appropriate (e.g. with local authorities or charities)
  • use existing evidence (including service impact) to strengthen applications

A note on capacity 

We recognise that applying for funding can be time-consuming.

Providers may wish to:

  • focus on opportunities that are a strong fit
  • reuse application content where appropriate
  • collaborate with partners where possible

Learning from others

Many providers have experience of:

  • applying for funding
  • securing grants or contracts
  • working with commissioners or partners

We encourage providers to share:

  • funding opportunities they have found useful
  • tips for preparing applications
  • examples of successful approaches

Final note

Funding opportunities change regularly, and eligibility criteria vary.

This guide is intended as a starting point rather than a comprehensive list.

Download this resource as a PDF

Help us to improve this resource

This guide has been developed to support Meals on Wheels providers in navigating funding opportunities.

We recognise that many providers already have valuable experience in securing funding and developing sustainable services.

We would really value your input to help ensure this resource reflects what works in practice.

If you have experience in securing funding, we would be very interested to hear from you.

You might wish to share:

  • funding sources you have found useful
  • tips or approaches that have helped your applications succeed
  • challenges you’ve encountered
  • examples of funding that has supported your service

We are particularly interested in practical insights that could help other providers.

Please share your ideas via our WhatsApp Community.  

Your input will help develop a resource shaped by Meals on Wheels providers across the sector.

Has this resource been useful?

Please share your feedback using the form below


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