2015 sped by in the blink of an eye. But there was still more than enough time for Vegetarian for Life (VfL) take huge strides forward as the national charity that supports older vegetarians and vegans.
This year saw the charity raise awareness of its work by attending more public and trade events than ever before. Highlights included Vegfests in Brighton, London and Glasgow. In both Vegfest London and Glasgow, we introduced and managed ‘Mature Zones’. Here, older visitors could enjoy a cup of tea, find out about our work or listen to one of many talks: from ethical investing to finding out more about our new Friends scheme. Friends of VfL are individuals who work of voluntarily to raise awareness of the charity. This is vital work, and we hugely appreciate the contribution of all those people who have already become VfL Friends.
Vegfest London also saw the launch of Vintage, our first published magazine, which has proven to be incredibly popular. Similarly, our new Cooking for One guide was eagerly anticipated and has quickly become our most popular publication. This new recipe booklet is aimed especially at senior vegetarians and vegans who cook for themselves. With recipes ranging from Simply Satisfying Salads to Vegetable Heroes and from Family Favourites to Desserts that do you Good, there is something to reinvigorate the most jaded appetite and inspire the novice cook.
The booklet was compiled by Jane Hughes, the widely respected chef and food writer, who is the charity’s roving chef. Jane was one of a number of new faces who joined the charity during the year, adding to our range of expertise and regional coverage. In February, Mike Ashbridge joined as the charity’s Director in Wales. And in the autumn, Kim Stringer stepped into the role of our Director in Scotland, following Tina Fox’s retirement. Tina was instrumental in the formation of the charity and will stay on in an advisory capacity.
Diane Moreton, Chair of VfL, commented: “2015 was a year of great progress. All of the work and achievements over the year have increased the scale and influence of our work. Just as importantly it has created an exciting momentum that will help us achieve even more in 2016!”
VfL produces free guides on nutrition, catering for older vegetarians and vegans, and 4-week vegetarian and vegan menu planners. For more information about VfL’s charitable work and resources for older vegetarians and vegans visit www.vegetarianforlife.org.uk or contact us.
