Chelsea care home chef shortlisted for national dementia award

A chef in a care home in Chelsea is celebrating after being shortlisted for a national accolade. 

Zoe Ezeh, Head Chef at Care UK’s Ellesmere House, on Nightingale Place, has been nominated for ‘The Dementia Unsung Hero Award’ at the National Dementia Care Awards.

The National Dementia Care Awards aim to reward and recognise those who have demonstrated excellence within their field of work.

The nomination is the result of the dedication and focus of Zoe, who joined the team in January 2018, and the strong catering team she has built up. Zoe and her team take a person-centred approach to their cooking and meet every resident to design menus around their preferences and clinical needs. 

It is during these moments that Zoe encourages the residents to reminisce and share their memories of cooking and meals they enjoyed growing up to inspire new dishes at Ellesmere House.

An advocate for nutritionally-balanced, delicious meals, Zoe ensures residents are fuelling their body with the correct amount of calories – particularly for those living with dementia, who may struggle maintaining their weight. Under Zoe’s careful direction, and working closely with the care and nursing teams, the catering team put together an action plan to support residents. 

Commenting on the shortlisting, Zoe said: “Whether we’re creating appetising dishes, or baking cakes for residents to enjoy with a cup of tea, we strive to make a positive impact on residents’ health and wellbeing through nutrition and hydration.  

“I’m over the moon to be shortlisted for this award – I’m keeping my fingers crossed for a win!” 

Margaret Kimathi, Home Manager, added: “I’m delighted to see Zoe’s hard work being rewarded – she thoroughly deserves to be recognised. Her energy and passion for food shines through every meal she thoughtfully prepares. Well done, Zoe!” 

Ellesmere House offers a full range of permanent residential care and short-term respite, including a café, hair and beauty salon, bar and cinema. The highly trained, professional team also delivers specialist dementia care.