NACC and HCA team up to launch Nutrition Advocates programme
The National Association of Care Catering (NACC) and the Hospital Caterers Association (HCA) have again joined forces, this time to promote awareness programme Nutrition Advocates.
Aimed at highlighting the importance of nutrition, including hydration, in all social and health care settings throughout the UK, Nutrition Advocates will also support the aims of the NACC and HCA Nutrition Day on 20 March.
Karen Oliver, NACC chair, explained: "Low awareness of malnutrition and dehydration amongst service users, carers and care professionals is still widespread. Having a focus for good nutrition in all settings is therefore vital.
"The Nutrition Advocates will provide a crucial link in the Nutrition Pathway for any social or health care setting. Many social and health care staff are in a position to help monitor the health of older people so it is imperative that we ensure they have the awareness and tools to provide the care our vulnerable patients and service users deserve."
Janice Gillan, HCA chair, added: "The Nutrition Advocates would further underpin key messages in hospitals and healthcare teams such as protected mealtimes.
"With the strong economic argument for supporting people with good nutrition and hydration there is a need to ensure every health care setting and team has someone in place to keep abreast of the changing face of good nutritional care."
The NACC and HCA have developed information outlining the role a Nutrition Advocate will play, together with support materials for creating Nutrition Advocates in any workplace. Visit www.thenacc.co.uk to download the information or contact the NACC admin office on 0870 7480 180 / info@thenacc.co.uk.
By Janie Manzoori-Stamford
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