Lauren Jardine, manager at Homes Together Gateshead, explains how disabled people can retain their independence through cooking

Promoting independence and empowering service users is a fundamental aspect of providing high-quality care and it is important that people living with disabilities are able to engage confidently in day-to-day activities and life skills.

This ethos extends to the kitchen, where services users can enjoy the satisfaction and freedom of preparing their own meals. Many of the service users at Homes Together have visual impairments and so cooking and baking can be a very sensory experience. Learning to cook can also offer other benefits for individuals with disabilities. It might improve their prospects for jobs within the food industry, help them save money by making more cost-effective (and healthier) meals, and offer social benefits by cooking with friends. Cooking may also promote maths and reading proficiencies required for employment from reading recipes and measuring out ingredients. 

To support services users’ autonomy, our homes utilise a range of specialised kitchen equipment designed to meet the unique needs of the people in our care. Below we have outlined the various devices employed in our homes that empower service users to be as independent as possible, while also under the guidance of the team.

Talking microwave

For visually impaired service users, a talking microwave serves as a useful tool. By incorporating raised bumpers on the on-button, individuals can locate and activate the microwave with ease. Once operational, the appliance uses voice prompts to guide users through the cooking process, enabling them to prepare their own meals confidently.

Talking scales

Enabling individuals to weigh their own ingredients accurately, talking scales provide auditory feedback, allowing visually-impaired service users to cook with precision. This empowers them to follow recipes, measure ingredients, and maintain a sense of control over their culinary endeavours.

Level indicator

To assist individuals with motor skill challenges, a level indicator can be affixed to cups. This device emits an audible signal when the liquid reaches a certain level, alerting users to stop pouring. By fostering independence in simple tasks such as pouring juice, service users can be both independent and confident.

One-cup kettle

Designed with safety in mind, the one-cup kettle allows service users to prepare their own hot beverages effortlessly. With a single button operation, individuals can control the kettle independently, ensuring they can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee without assistance.

Alexa coffee machine

For tech-savvy service users, an Alexa coffee machine provides a touch of modernity in the kitchen. By simply requesting” Alexa, make me a hot drink”, individuals can enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Although staff support may be required to place the coffee pod, this innovative device promotes a sense of ownership and independence.

Balancing support and independence

While specialised equipment plays a crucial role in fostering independence, it is essential to strike the right balance between support and empowerment. Our staff members are trained to utilise the ‘hand on hand’ technique when assisting service users in kitchen activities. This technique involves placing their hands on top of the service users’ hands, guiding them through tasks like vegetable chopping. By employing this approach, staff members ensure safety without taking over, allowing service users to actively participate in meal preparation and experience the joy of cooking.

Developing independence among disabled individuals when it comes to cooking is not only about acquiring culinary skills but also about empowering them to lead more confident, fulfilling lives. As carer providers, we play a crucial part in this journey by offering the support and encouragement needed as people with disabilities discover their strengths and gain a feeling of accomplishment in the kitchen.

Homes Together now has thirteen homes in Harrogate, Knaresborough, Ripon and one in Gateshead