Ruaan Prins, Chef Manager at Heathlands Residential Care Home in Pershore, has been named winner of the Care Home Worker Award at the Worcestershire Health and Social Care Awards, recognising his exceptional impact beyond the kitchen in enhancing residents' lives.
During his three years at the not-for-profit Sanctuary Care home, Ruaan has worked closely with residents and care staff to tailor dining experiences to individual preferences and life stories. One of his notable achievements is the introduction of regular fine dining evenings, inspired by residents' memories of eating out. These events transform Heathlands into an elegant restaurant setting, complete with dressed tables, waiter service, and a drinks reception.
The fine dining evenings have become a highlight for residents and their families, recreating the enjoyment of dining out. Ruaan has since expanded the concept to include family carers and local community members, providing a dementia-friendly environment where guests can enjoy high-quality food and companionship.
Ruaanβs dedication to enriching lives through food has earned him recognition within Sanctuary Care, including the Best Performing Chef award across Worcestershire homes and winning Sanctuary Care's national MasterChef competition last year, which involved chefs from 109 care homes across England and Scotland.
Beyond his kitchen duties, Ruaan regularly runs cookery sessions with residents, supporting their hobbies and interests. Activities have included bread making, pasta workshops, and fulfilling a residentβs wish to be "chef for the day" by cooking for fellow residents.
After receiving the award, Ruaan said,
I am incredibly honoured and grateful to have won this award. It means so much to me. Working at Heathlands reminds me every day that care is about people first, our residents, their stories, preferences and experiences, not just the food we serve. A huge thank you to my amazing colleagues and everyone who has supported me along the way. I am so proud to do what I do and proud to be part of Sanctuary Care.
The Worcestershire Health and Social Care Awards celebrate excellence across the countyβs care sector, recognising individuals and teams whose dedication makes a positive difference to peopleβs lives every day.
