So much more than a kitchen – how Weldmar’s fabulous catering team makes a difference at our hospice

19th March 2026

At Weldmar Hospicecare, our ethos is to provide the highest level of individually tailored care for our patients and their loved ones. This holistic approach extends to food nutrition and hydration as we deliver a food service at our hospice that delivers over and above the required standard.

To mark Nutrition and Hydration Awareness Week, we’re shining a spotlight on the team that provides this key part of our inpatient service.

Sam White is Weldmar’s Catering and Nutrition Lead, and has been with the charity for 17 years. Sam enjoys walking, exploring new places, family time, and cooking at home with my son and teaching all the chef tips and tricks!

Sam says: “I love my role here at Weldmar’s Inpatient Unit. It is very varied and every day is different, from supporting patients with their individual dietary needs and cooking their meals to order to account for needs in texture or allergies, through to cooking meals for the Orangery Bistro or supporting a relative that may just need a chat at the coffee machine. It’s being part of an organisation that provides so much specialist care and compassion to people when they need it most.”

Sam’s Top Tip: “Smoothies!! If your appetite is reduced and you’re not really feeling up to eating then preparing a smoothie (or getting someone else to do it for you!) is brilliant and so easy! Pack it with everything you like and whizz it up.”

Louise is a chef and has been at Weldmar for eight years, and when not in our kitchen she can often be found outdoors! She loves her garden, camping, and competing in triathlons!

Louise says: “When new patients are admitted to the hospice, one of my roles is to assess whether a patient is eating, the level of appetite, and the ability to eat. Any allergies or barriers to nutrition and hydration are identified and a plan put in place. We can offer a diet that will nourish them and keep them hydrated.

Louise’s Top Tip: “This is something that I do. Have a glass of luke warm water with some electrolytes before any other food or drink. This helps to rehydrate your body after sleep.”

Laima has been part of the team for two years, and is a Chef in Training. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, shopping and walking, and making cakes – she is the current Weldmar Hospicecare Bake Off Champion!

Laima is also studying for a Production Chef qualification alongside her role, on an apprenticeship with Coastland College. She says: “I love making delicious food for patients. I find it very fulfilling when I talk to the patients at the hospice and I’m able to put a smile on their face.

Laima’s Top Tip: “Stay hydrated! I always make sure patients have a fresh water jug to hand, and I drink water throughout the day too.”

Catering Assistant Waree has been with Weldmar for a year and a half. She loves reading historical fiction, having a daytime snooze, and getting creative! Waree hand made these beautiful soft toys for children and young people supported by the Patient and Family Support Service.

Waree says: “I love to see patients enjoy our food and eat well. I like preparing food for our staff, volunteers, and visitors too – when they are happy eating, it makes me happy too!”

Waree’s Top Tip: “If you don’t enjoy drinking just water, add some flavour with your favourite cordial.”

Eldho joined our Catering team at the beginning of 2024 as a Cook, and by August had progressed to be a Healthcare Chef. Eldho has an active role in the dietary needs of new patients, and is working towards all elements of clinical catering competencies.

Eldho says: “I prepare food for patients, and staff meals for the Orangery Bistro. I like that we can offer a very balanced and varied menu, and customise ingredients according to the patient’s dietary needs and requirements.”

Eldho’s Top Tip: “You can actually hydrate with food options. Fluid rich foods such as soup, custard, jelly and yoghurt can help keep you hydrated, but try to drink throughout the day too.”