Celebrating Excellence in Vegan/Vegetarian Care – VfL Awards Return to Parliament

We’re excited to announce that the Vegetarian for Life Awards for Excellence in Veg*n Care Catering are returning to the Houses of Parliament on Wednesday 22 October 2025.

As interest in plant-based living continues to rise across all age groups, our most recent survey revealed a 24% increase in vegan and vegetarian care home residents over the past decade. This shift makes the awards more relevant – and more vital – than ever.

First launched in 2016, the VfL Awards honour the chefs, caterers, and suppliers who go above and beyond to ensure older veg*ns are not just fed, but truly cared for with dignity and compassion.

We would love your support in sharing news of this year’s ceremony and award categories.

Entry details and full media release are below. Please let us know if you would like further information, images, or to be considered for one of our limited media places at the event.

With many thanks – Karin

Celebrating Plant-Based Excellence in Care Catering:

VfL Awards Return to the Houses of Parliament

As the number of vegans and vegetarians in residential care continues to grow, Vegetarian for Life (VfL) is proud to announce the return of its flagship event: the VfL Awards for Excellence in Veg*n Care Catering.

The prestigious awards will be held on the afternoon of Wednesday 22 October 2025, at the Houses of Parliament, bringing together champions of compassionate care catering from across the UK.

From inspired chefs to pioneering suppliers, the awards shine a spotlight on the individuals and organisations making real strides in ensuring that older veg*ns are well nourished, respected, and truly seen.

“At VfL, we believe that care caterers who go the extra mile to create delicious and nutritious plant-based meals deserve meaningful recognition,” said Amanda Woodvine, Chief Executive of Vegetarian for Life.

“The VfL Awards celebrate those leading the way in modern, inclusive care catering.”

TV presenter, author and Vegetarian for Life Patron Wendy Turner Webster added:

“Behind every thoughtfully prepared vegan or vegetarian meal in a care home is someone who took the time to listen, learn and care. These awards are about honouring those unsung heroes who ensure dignity, choice, and compassion are always on the menu.”

Award entries must be submitted by 12pm on Friday 15 August.

Submit your nominations here: https://form.jotform.com/VfL_UK/vfl-awards-2025

2025 Award Categories

Vegan/Vegetarian Care/Hospital Caterer of the Year sponsored by Greetwell Purchasing Solutions. 

Awarded to a standout caterer or team preparing a wide range of exciting, nutritious meals for older veg*ns in care.

Vegan/Vegetarian Supplier of the Year sponsored by Procurement For Care. 

Honouring a supplier offering an exceptional veg*n product – or product range –that enhances care catering menus.

Chefs’ Hero Product. 

Chosen by chefs, this award highlights the go-to plant-based product they rely on when developing flavourful, resident-friendly dishes.

Most Innovative Vegan/Vegetarian Recipe sponsored by ProSauce. 

Looking for the dish that combines great taste, affordability, and creative use of ingredients – whether for care settings or at home.

(Winning recipes will be shared with stakeholders and showcased across VfL’s digital platforms.)

The Beulah Charity Trust Special Recognition Award. 

Celebrating an individual making an extraordinary difference for older vegans and vegetarians – be it a resident, volunteer, or care professional.

Media Attendance

A limited number of media places are available for the event. To be added to the waiting list, please contact:

Karin Ridgers – info@mad-promotions.com

Click here for a look at past winners.

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Editors notes

For more information, to talk with the team or for images please do contact Karin Ridgers info@mad-promotions.com.

About Vegetarian for Life (VfL):

Vegetarian for Life (VfL) is the UK’s leading voice for older vegans and vegetarians. As the only charity dedicated to supporting veg*n living in later life, VfL champions dignity, choice, and compassion in care catering.

With only four fully vegetarian care homes in the UK, VfL exists to ensure that older veg*ns – whether in care homes, hospitals, or receiving care at home – can thrive with their beliefs fully respected and their needs confidently met.

Our Vision for 2030

By 2030, Vegetarian for Life envisions a UK where:

• Older vegans and vegetarians live with dignity, supported by care providers who understand and respect their dietary beliefs.
• 1 in every 6 care homes in the UK is listed in our VfL UK List, demonstrating a commitment to plant-based inclusion.
• 1 in every 100 care homes achieves full VfL accreditation – our gold standard for excellence in veg*n catering.

As the trusted first point of contact for older veg*ns, their families, and care professionals, we offer personalised support and foster a strong, empowered community.

We are also:

• A driving force in improving standards across the care sector – where high-quality vegan and vegetarian options are not only available, but expected.
• A rights-based advocate, working to ensure that plant-based diets are recognised in law and practice, on par with religious and cultural beliefs.
• A catalyst for change, delivering original research, influencing national policy, and amplifying the voices of older veg*ns.

Through training, partnerships, and advocacy, we’re ensuring that plant-based living is protected and celebrated throughout later life

Website: https://vegetarianforlife.org.uk

Media Contact: Karin Ridgers – info@mad-promotions.com