Our Chefs Are Finalists in Care Chef of the Year 2025

Two Colten Care chefs have been named South East Regional Finalists in the NACC Care Chef of the Year 2025 competition, celebrating creativity, technical skill, and excellence in care catering.

Lorna Parsons and Jack Wood will now go on to represent Colten Care in the national finals this October. The National Association of Care Catering (NACC) competition is the UK’s longest-standing event of its kind, recognising chefs who prepare delicious, nutritious meals for older people while meeting strict dietary and budgetary requirements.

To be selected as finalists is a significant achievement, placing Lorna and Jack among the very best in the country.

Lorna began her journey with Colten Care over two decades ago in a part-time kitchen assistant role. She became our very first catering apprentice at The Bournemouth & Poole College and progressed through the ranks, earning her NVQ Level 3 in Catering and Hospitality, and later taking up Head Chef roles at both Belmore Lodge and Amberwood House. In 2019, she was chosen as part of the inaugural opening team at Bourne View, where she led a ten-strong kitchen brigade.

Lorna’s passion for baking and attention to detail has seen her complete specialist courses at the renowned Chewton Glen Hotel and become known as one of the finest bakers across Colten Care’s 21 homes.

“I’ve been with Colten Care for over 20 years and the company have always supported me with training courses and promotions,” says Lorna.

Jack joined Colten Care in 2022, bringing with him a background in fine dining, including roles at AA Rosette-awarded restaurants with Michelin recognition. At Newstone House, he brings that same passion for food to the care setting, working closely with clinical teams to tailor meals to individual health needs, allergies, and preferences.

From high-calorie milkshakes for those needing extra nutrition to creatively modified texture meals for residents with swallowing difficulties, Jack’s thoughtful approach ensures every resident is well nourished without compromise on flavour or presentation.

“It’s all about dignity and experience,” Jack explains. “Whether it’s a dairy-free pie or a pancetta-wrapped chicken breast at a gala dinner, every plate matters.”

The NACC Care Chef of the Year competition challenges chefs to create innovative, exciting recipes that are budget-conscious, nutritionally balanced, and suitable for older adults. Open to professionals in care homes, hospices, and local authorities, it is the benchmark for excellence in care catering.

At Colten Care, food is a vital part of daily life. Residents choose from show plates, enjoy seasonal dishes, and are involved in shaping menus. From comfort food favourites to silver service at gala events, our teams strive to make every mealtime a moment of enjoyment and care.

We wish Lorna and Jack the very best of luck in the national finals.