The County Council commissions the Meals on Wheels service, offering hot meals to adults aged 18+ who need support with meals and managing their nutrition. The service is delivered by apetito. In response to the impact of Covid-19, eligibility criteria has been temporarily broadened to include those who are under 55 years, classed as highly vulnerable to the virus, unable to leave the house and unable to reheat a pre-prepared meal.
Councillor Liz Fairhurst, Executive Member for Adult Social Care and Health said: “Meals on Wheels offers a vital lifeline for many Hampshire residents, particularly now as we begin a period of further national restrictions.
“In addition to the meals’ nutritional value, which is so important for good physical and mental health, the Meals on Wheels visit is sometimes the only social interaction a person may have all day – in this way, the service also plays a valuable role in helping to prevent social isolation.”
The County Council’s Meals on Wheels service is Covid-secure – with all meals delivered by apetito drivers in line with national public health advice, including wearing the required personal protective equipment. The delivery comprises a two-course hot lunchtime meal, with an additional option of afternoon tea. The current cost is £5.13 for the two-course meal and £3.25 for the tea.
Meals on Wheels drivers are trained to carry out a wellbeing check in addition to the delivery of the meal. This ensures that wellbeing and safety concerns are identified, and action taken in a timely way. Drivers report concerns to the relevant Hampshire County Council team or call for emergency services where necessary.
Those who receive the Meals on Wheels service have been assessed as having a need for support to manage and maintain nutrition.
Further information is available on the Meals on Wheels pages.
