By turning an everyday activity into a volunteering opportunity, Meal Makers strengthens connections within communities and provides a flexible way for people to volunteer their time and skills locally in a way which suits them.
Before we can get you paired up with an older neighbour you will need to complete an online food safety quiz and a PVG (criminal record check). Once your application has been approved, you can search for nearby Diners on the site.
We understand that not everyone has access to the internet, and this shouldn’t stop you from being able to take part, if you can’t access the internet but want to cook, please get in touch at hello@mealmakers.org.uk or by calling 0800 783 7770.
A lot of our Cooks have said that they really enjoy the opportunity to try cooking different things, and over time our diners can become a bit more adventurous with their tastes and enjoy trying different things too!
Some older people tend to find large meals off-putting and like to eat little and often, so there’s no need to go crazy with your portion sizes!
We will check in with you both every now and again to see how things are going.
New diners are joining Meal Makers all the time, so if there isn’t anybody close enough to you, please keep checking back regularly, as it won’t be long before we have a diner in your local area.
If it's an emergency always call 999 first.
As we are asking people to share an extra portion of their own food, we trust that you will only be serving food that you are happy to eat yourself.
Either: Passport + Driving License + Letter with your address (within the last 3 months) e.g. utility bill, Council letter, bank/credit card statement.
Or: Passport/ Driving license (photographic) + 2 x letters with your address (within the last 3 months) e.g. utility bill, Council letter, bank/credit card statement.
Alternatively you can contact us at hello@mealmakers.org.uk or 0800 7837770.
If you are interested in volunteering to be a cook and do not live in Scotland, please still sign up as this allows us to establish demand in other areas.