V for Life

16/06/2026

"My mum had been a vegetarian all of her life."

This Care Home Open Week, we're sharing the story of Dr Ann Moulds, whose 94-year-old mother was repeatedly served meat in a care home despite being a lifelong vegetarian: https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/16378143/vegetarian-dementia-resident-served-meat-carehome-charity/

For many people, veganism and vegetarianism are far more than dietary choices. They are part of who we are – reflecting our values, beliefs and identity.

At VfL, we believe those beliefs should be respected at every stage of life, including when someone receives care.

We're grateful to Ann for speaking out and helping raise awareness of an issue that affects many older vegans and vegetarians.

Read more: https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/16378143/vegetarian-dementia-resident-served-meat-carehome-charity/

A DOCTOR who successfully campaigned to change stalking laws across 50 countries has been fighting a very different battle – to protect the rights of her elderly mum who has been vegetarian f…

15/06/2026

Opening our doors during Care Home Open Week

What does it take to support older vegans and vegetarians to live well in later life?

The answer goes far beyond what's on the menu.

This week, we're opening the doors on VfL and sharing some of the people, projects and partnerships helping older veg*ns maintain their independence, stay connected and continue living according to their values.

From care home chefs and volunteers to community initiatives and policy work, we'll be taking you behind the scenes throughout the week.

As Care Home Open Week coincides with Loneliness Awareness Week, we'll also be highlighting the importance of connection, friendship and belonging in later life.

Follow along this week as we celebrate the people helping older veg*ns live well.

08/06/2026

This Carers Week, we're recognising the millions of unpaid carers across the UK.

In our latest blog, VfL Roving Chef Alex looks at the challenges carers face, shares details of cookery sessions for carers, and highlights resources that can help.

Read more: https://vegetarianforlife.org.uk/blog/post/carers-week-support-for-those-who-care

27/05/2026

This week, VfL Chef Claire spent time with the Calvay Housing Gentlemen’s Group – where many of the participants had never cooked before. Together, they made a delicious vegan curry, pilau rice and spiced onions, and everyone was so proud of what they achieved.

The group meets every Tuesday for activities designed to build skills, confidence and reduce isolation within the community.

One participant told us: “I’ve never cooked anything before. My curry is fantastic. I’m so glad I came to the class.”

Moments like these show how food can bring people together, boost confidence and create lasting connections.

22/05/2026

Awareness is only the first step.

Our latest blog shares practical ways care providers, families and individuals can support dietary identity in dementia care – from menu planning to future care conversations.

Explore the tools and recommendations here: https://vegetarianforlife.org.uk/blog/post/practical-tools-for-working-with-dementia-and-diet

20/05/2026

What makes “good food” in care?

Research suggests it’s about much more than calories or nutrition alone.

For many older adults, familiar meals, choice and shared mealtimes all contribute to identity, comfort and wellbeing.

Read our latest blog exploring diet and identity: https://vegetarianforlife.org.uk/blog/post/diet-and-identity-what-the-research-shows

18/05/2026

When someone develops dementia, what happens to the values and beliefs that have shaped their life?

For most vegans and vegetarians, diet is a core part of identity – not simply a food choice.

Our latest Dementia Action Week blog explores why respecting those beliefs in care settings matters.

Read here: https://vegetarianforlife.org.uk/blog/post/dementia-and-diet-why-it-matters

16/05/2026

Sweet, savoury or somewhere in between – how do you enjoy walnuts and biscuits?

Chef Claire shares her favourite ways to celebrate Walnut Day and Biscuit Day, from classic pairings to simple baking inspiration.

Read more: vegetarianforlife.org.uk/blog/post/crunch-crumble-and-celebrate-walnut-day-and-biscuit-day-in-may-2026

Tell us your go-to biscuit below 👇

05/05/2026

Some days, it’s not the cooking – it’s the washing up afterwards.

In the latest episode of Cook This When…, we gave our four chefs one simple brief:

What do you cook when washing up feels like too much?

No preparation. Just their immediate ideas.

Watch the latest episode here:
https://youtu.be/B0dMXKqYpl4

What do you cook when washing up feels like too much?In this episode of Cook This When…, our four chefs take on the same challenge:Create a comforting meal w...

30/04/2026

Sometimes you don’t need a celebration meal – just something that feels comforting, nourishing, and easy.

In our latest Cook This When… challenge, we asked our four chefs one simple question:

What do you cook when you want to feel looked after?

No preparation. Just their immediate ideas.

Watch the latest episode here: https://youtu.be/mxfWZr1dauc?is=SVCq3XbYN4Otjowx

COOK THIS WHEN you want to feel LOOKED AFTER | VEGAN comfort food | Chef challenge