Bristol care home chef shortlisted for prestigious award

A chef at a care home in Bristol is celebrating after being nominated for a national award.

 

Darren Nelson, Head Chef at Care UK’s Trymview Hall, on Southmead Road in Westbury-on-Trym, has been shortlisted for care chef of the year in the National Care Awards 2025. 

The accolades recognise teams and individuals that demonstrate innovation, dedication and exceptional service within the long-term care sector.

Darren, who has years of experience in restaurants and was previously executive chef for the Royal British Legion, joined Trymview Hall in 2019. He has an extensive knowledge of every resident’s food preference and is committed to ensuring meals are tasty, well presented and of high quality.

Commenting on the nomination, Darren said: “I am delighted to be nominated in the National Care Home Awards. I truly love working for Care UK at Trymview Hall, as there are always challenges and opportunities as the organisation grows. The best part of my role is interacting with the residents and making a real difference in their lives. Seeing them happy and smiling makes everything we do worthwhile.”

Darren is particularly passionate about residents maintaining a nutrient-dense, healthy and balanced diet that allows them to live active and fulfilling lives. He enjoys getting residents involved, so offers show plates and grazing menus to help them choose their preferred meals. 

One resident said: “Eating here is like going to one’s favourite restaurant knowing that the patron will never have an off day.”

Darren also enjoys taking residents on culinary journeys. Recently, he helped one resident celebrate their 100th birthday in a truly unique way. After learning they credited their long life to beetroot, Darren worked with them to create an entire beetroot-themed menu, including a beetroot terrine.

Nicole Anderson, Home Manager at Trymview Hall, said: “We are thrilled that Darren has been shortlisted for a national catering award. It’s a true testament to his skills and culinary knowledge. 

“We are so proud of Darren and his expert kitchen team at Trymview Hall. They make such a positive difference to residents and cook some of the most delicious and nutritional food. They work hard every day, and Darren certainly deserves to be recognised nationally.

“We are all keeping our fingers crossed for a win later this year!” 

The 2025 National Care Awards will take place on Friday 7 November at Park Plaza, London.

Trymview Hall is a state-of-the-art care home that provides full-time residential, dementia and short-term respite care. The building incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities, and includes its own cinema, hair and beauty salon and pub.