From next Monday, Apetito will be delivering meals on wheels to 800 residents in West Sussex, taking over from the current provider, the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS).
Paul Freeston, CEO of Apetito, said, “We are absolutely delighted to have won the contract to supply and deliver Meals on Wheels to residents across West Sussex. This is a vital service that supports people’s health and wellbeing enabling them to remain independent within their own homes.'
Peter Catchpole, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, said, “These meals are a vital service provided by West Sussex County Council. This service plays an important role helping ensure people using the service have a nutritious, hot meal and have someone visit them regularly to check on them, which can make a big difference to people who might be feeling isolated.'
The price customers pay for the hot lunch will remain at £4.20, exclusive of VAT. However from April 1st 2016, there will be an increase to £4.60 for a hot lunch, exclusive of VAT. VAT will not have to be paid by those assessed as requiring care and support who may be amongst the most vulnerable in the community.
Catchpole added, “As a council we understand how important it is that the service offers value for money for our customers and that is why we will be working with Apetito to keep prices as low as possible. However, at the same time, the service also needs to be sustainable and that is why it will be necessary for an increase in price next spring.'
Apetito has run meals services across the country including Hampshire and East Sussex.