Meet the UK care homes committed to veggie catering excellence

Page updated 03 November 2025.

Staggering figures show that residents following a vegan diet in UK residential care homes have risen by 24 per cent since 2014.

But occasions such as National Vegetarian Week, Vegan Month, and Veganuary are a chance to reflect on how well prepared your care facility would be for an influx of vegan or vegetarian residents.

There are currently more than 11,000 care homes for older people in the UK – between them catering for over 8,000 vegans and vegetarians. Almost 1 in 6 of these homes are now committed to veggie catering excellence, via membership of charity Vegetarian for Life’s UK List.

Amanda Woodvine, Chief Executive of Vegetarian for Life, cautions: “By not demonstrating that they are veggie-friendly, many care establishments are missing out on new, potential residents. But becoming a Vegetarian for Life UK List member is a great way to demonstrate this. Plus you’ll be joining some of the UK’s leading care homes and food suppliers, committed to providing the best possible catering for your vegan and vegetarian residents.

“Once signed up, you will be kept regularly updated with expert support and news. Both Basic and Accredited membership options are available – and many of Vegetarian for Life’s core services are offered completely free of charge.”

Some of the charity’s most inspiring members have shared their exclusive stories and tips. Click on the links below to find out more.

Chris Bonner, Executive Chef and Nutrition and Hydration Lead at HC-One

Steve Dale, Head Chef, Moreton Centre, St Matthew’s Health Care

Nick Dutton, Operations Manager at Primrose Bank Care Home

Lee Joyner, Executive Chef at Cinnamon Luxury Care

Satpal Kambo, Chef Manager at Garden City Court, Quantum Care

Simon Lawrence, Head of Hospitality and Culinary at Avery Healthcare

Jody Marshall, Group Hospitality Manager at Meallmore Limited and Deputy Chair of the National Association of Care Catering

Sophie Murray, Governance and Regulation Manager, Harbour Healthcare 

Serco Patient Catering Team, University Hospital Southampton

Richard Smith, Hospitality Development Manager at Advinia Healthcare

Matthew Thornton, Development Chef, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust

Leni Wood, Nutrition and Wellness Manager, Nellsar Care Homes

Vegetarian for Life has also produced ten fun activities and training ideas to mark National Vegetarian Week.