Ruaan is in the running for Award!

Our very own MasterChef winner Ruaan Prins is a finalist in the Worcestershire Health and Social Care Awards.

Ruaan, Chef Manager at Heathlands in Pershore, has been shortlisted for the Care Home Worker Award category.

While Ruaan's role centres on food, his impact reaches far beyond the kitchen. During his three years at Heathlands, he has worked alongside care colleagues to better understand residents' routines, interests and life stories.

One of his most celebrated initiatives has been the introduction of fine dining evenings, inspired by residents who spoke fondly about how much they enjoyed going out to a restaurant. The events transform Heathlands into an elegant restaurant setting, with beautifully set tables, team members dressed as waiting staff and a glass of fizz and cocktail or mocktail.  

The evenings have become a highlight for residents, families and guests, recreating the atmosphere and enjoyment of dining out.  

The idea has grown beyond the home's walls. Ruaan launched fine dining experiences for family carers, their loved ones and members of the local community. The events provide a welcoming, dementia-aware environment where guests can enjoy restaurant-quality food and companionship without the pressures that can accompany eating out.

After hearing he had reached the finals Ruaan said: “I am incredibly proud to have been nominated and just delighted to have been shortlisted.  

“I want every resident to enjoy the same flavours and dining experience as we all do - and that is why their choice and enjoyment are at the heart of everything I do. Every plate should be full of flavour, nutritionally balanced and something residents are excited to eat.”  

Ruaan's commitment to enriching lives through food has earned recognition across Sanctuary Care. He was named Best Performing Chef across our Worcestershire homes before going on to win Sanctuary Care's national MasterChef 2025.

Ruaan also regularly gives his own time to run cookery sessions with residents, from bread making and pasta workshops to supporting one resident to become "chef for the day" and cook for fellow residents, he is passionate about ensuring people can continue doing the things they love.

For more about how we are enriching lives at Heathlands, visit Heathlands Residential Care Home l Pershore, Worcestershire