Big-hearted Chef and his team receive another prestigious award

A big-hearted chef and his dedicated team of kitchen assistants and volunteers have been presented with a prestigious award by Sir Michael Parkinson.

 

Chris Took, who can always be seen popping in and out of the kitchen at the Hospice to talk to patients about their needs and concerns, was nominated by colleagues for his upfront and caring attitude when working with patients and their families to assess their nutrition and dietary requirements.

 

His work was recognised and Chris was invited to attend a regional award ceremony, which he won. He then went on to be selected for the national award. 

 

Last week he attended the Health and Social Care National Dignity Award for People in Care Services at Excel with a team of ten staff, volunteers and two family members of a patient.

 

All enjoyed a suberb meal and were entertained by Darren and Lilia from Strictly Come Dancing!

 

Since May 2008 Phil Hope, MP, Minister for Care Services has been working to share best practice on dignity in care and to raise the profile of Dignity in Care.  The National Dignity Ambassador, Sir Michael Parkinson has accompanied him on part of the tour.

 

Sir Michael spent two hours chatting to winners and later presented Chris with his award. Sir Michael spoke passionately about why the award means so much to him.

 

The following day, he appeared on GMTV to talk about the night and highlighted his plans to work with the Department of Health to improve the diginity of patients who are being cared for. The programme also showed a clip of Chris receiving his award.

 

Sir Michael Parkinson, the Dignity in Care Ambassador says: “Most of us will at some point be in contact with care services - be that in our work, or as a service user, a carer, a relative or friend. The People's Award for Dignity in Care is a great way for us to recognise the dedication of health and care staff treating people with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

 

Dr Ros Taylor, Hospice Director said: “Dignity is the cornerstone of hospice care and underpins all that we do for patients and families at St Francis…..so CONGRATULATIONS to Chris and his catering team for showing the world that something as ordinary but important as eating can be approached in a dignified and compassionate way, helping patients to rediscover pleasure in food when pleasure has been long gone and understanding that mealtimes can be a source of resilience for families in difficult times.”