Radcliffe head chef shortlisted in Public Sector Catering Awards 2024

Head chef at HC-One’s Rose Court care home in Radcliffe, Aaron Derbyshire, has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Care Catering Award category in the Public Sector Catering Awards 2024.

The awards recognise "outstanding achievement among individuals, teams, companies and organisations operating within a public sector environment".

The Care Catering Award category involves the "delivery of resident mealtimes in a care setting, which has significantly improved catering services for clients and residents".

And Aaron has been shortlisted for his "meticulous attention to detail and the constant pursuit of excellence, as well as consistently demonstrating creativity, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to the unique dietary needs of residents".

Aaron Derbyshire taking part in a vegan and vegetarian development day with HC-One (Image: Supplied)

Group development chef, Pete Coles, who nominated Aaron for the award, said: “Aaron has elevated the dining experience for residents to an art form, making a profound impact on their well-being.

"Aaron brings an unparalleled dedication to the kitchen, infusing every dish with not just flavours, but a sense of warmth and love.

“For Aaron, it’s not just about nourishment, but about creating an environment and atmosphere where residents feel valued, heard, and cared for through the language of food.

“Aaron’s culinary creations are a reflection of a compassionate heart, skilled hands and an unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of those at Rose Court care home.

"Aaron is not just deserving of being nominated but exemplary of this prestigious recognition.”

Aaron with his employee of the month award as chosen by residents (Image: Supplied)

Aaron said: “It is an honour to be nominated for this award.

“My constant aim is to engage residents and involving them in the culinary process and continually ensure residents continue to receive nutritious and comforting meals to all.

"For this to be recognised by the Public Sector Catering Awards 2024 is truly an achievement in itself.”

Aaron taking part in a vegan and vegetarian development day with HC-One (Image: Supplied)

Aaron Derbyshire (Image: Aaron Derbyshire)

Rose Court home manager Leanne Batten-Smith added: “Since Aaron has started as head chef at Rose Court, he has really turned the kitchen around.

"He has implemented a clear routine for staff, in regard to daily cleaning and expectations.

"Presentation of meals have improved, along with the improved display of birthday cakes for residents.

"The whole kitchen team feel enthused with the passion and drive in the kitchen area.

“In this short time, Aaron has also been awarded employee of the month for what he has managed to change in the kitchen and what an asset he is to Rose Court.

“Aaron has also taken part in a resident meeting where everyone had the opportunity to ‘Meet the Chef’, it was a truly wonderful experience for all of our residents and relatives.”

The awards ceremony will take place at the Hilton London Metropole on Thursday, April 4 where the winners will be announced.