Paddington care home nominated for national award
A care home in Paddington is celebrating after being announced as a finalist for a prestigious prize.
The kitchen team at Care UK’s Forrester Court, on Cirencester Street off Harrow Road, has been shortlisted for care kitchen team of the year at the Leaders in Care Awards 2025.
These accolades recognise the best care homes in the country, the most innovative new products and mark the achievements of employees in the care sector.
The kitchen team at Forrester Court is led by passionate Head Chef Merilice Khan, who joined Care UK in 2020 with ambitions to create delicious and nutritious meals for the residents.
Over the past five years, Merilice has enjoyed devising special menus for birthdays, holidays and other home celebrations. Priding herself on the ability to bring ‘dining with dignity’ to every mealtime, she is an expert in the IDDSI framework, which supports those who struggle with swallowing.
Merilice said: “I am incredibly proud of the team for being nominated for this award and being recognised for making a difference to residents’ lives. At Forrester Court, we aim to fulfil residents' lives, whether it’s with daily activities or with every meal.
“The team works hard to ensure all the residents’ needs and preferences are taken into account for every meal. We are happy to change each resident's meal to something they enjoy, even if they just don’t fancy it that day!”
The kitchen team strives to ensure all meals are healthy and tasty, while also sourcing fresh, local produce where possible.
Ionela Savulescu, Home Manager at Forrester Court, said: “I have been impressed with Merilice’s leadership within her kitchen team across her five years with us. She has achieved so much and encourages everyone to create incredible meals.
“We want to wish all the nominees good luck and applaud them all for going above and beyond.”