Vegetarian for Life is a new charity set up by the Vegetarian Housing Association. It aims to improve standards of catering for older vegetarians and vegans throughout the U.K.

Because of our ageing population, ever more people are living in care homes and retirement complexes, or relying on home care and meals on wheels. VHA has been aware of many cases where older vegetarians and vegans have struggled to get acceptable food and extremes where they have been forced to eat meat.

The new charity intends to tackle this and related problems with a range of services, possibly including: a listing scheme for good providers; a website and information service; specific catering guides; menu and nutrition advice; and specialised training for cooks.

It is now looking for people who have stories to share with us of either very good or very bad practice in residential homes, meals on wheels or other related services. Have you or a relative any experience of this? We would love to hear your stories.

Vegetarian for Life will be independent but hopes to have a strong working partnership with and to work closely with other charities working in the vegetarian/ vegan fields and with those working for the welfare of older people.

Vegetarian for Life has appointed Tina Fox, previously Chief Executive of the Vegetarian Society for 11 years, as its first manager. Tina says – “I am delighted to take on this new challenge. For a long time I have felt that older people in the vegetarian movement, who were often pioneers in their time, are not given the support that they deserve, and VFL hopes to redress the balance”.

For further information on Vegetarian for Life or to share your stories please contact Tina on 07802 615533 or via email tinari@btinternet.com

Charity reg number 1120687
Company reg number 6294709