Sodexo awarded Essex County Council Meals on Wheels contract

Sodexo has won a three year contract to provide meals on wheels for Essex County Council.

The contract, with an annual turnover of £2 million, begins on 1 October and will see meals on wheels delivered to around 1,350 older and vulnerable adults across the county of Essex. The food supplier will be Sodexo’s prepared foods business, Tillery Valley.

Using custom-built, environmentally friendly vans, Sodexo will deliver hot meals directly to residents, giving them a wide choice of dishes and multiple choice menus that incorporate cultural and dietary requirements. As part of the service, a 'safe and well' check will also be provided where delivery drivers make it part of their duty to check on the wellbeing of customers.

Essex County Councillor John Aldridge, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “Meals on wheels is a vital service provided by Essex County Council; not only does it ensure that vulnerable adults have the opportunity to receive at least one nutritionally balanced meal a day but it also means they are visited in their home which can bring great comfort to carers and families knowing those they care about are being checked on. I look forward to working with our new supplier to provide this valued service.”

Simon Scrivens, managing director, Sodexo Healthcare and Tillery Valley, said: "This is an excellent contract win for Sodexo following a competitive tender process. We are focused on quality and sustainability, and look forward to working alongside Essex County Council in helping older, infirm and housebound individuals remain nourished and independent in their own homes.”