Heading up the team in our Resource Centre Kitchen is Primary Services Manager – Claudette Dawkins – who has worked at The Passage for the past 25 years. Last year alone, over 34,000 meals were prepared and served to those who have been impacted by homelessness.
When did you start working at The Passage?
I started working at The Passage in May 1999. When the role of Head Chef at The Passage came up, I went along for the interview and got it! I’ve been here ever since, and no day is the same, which is why I love it here.
“It’s a matter of pride for me and I always try and put myself
in the position of the people we serve”
– Claudette Dawkins, Primary Services Manager and Head Chef
Tell us about your team?
I work with Nour at The Passage, and Micky and Koko, who are based at Passage House Assessment Centre. But, it’s safe to say we could not do it all by ourselves! So, we also have a dedicated team of kitchen volunteers who do everything from prepping the food, setting up for meals, and helping to clear up.
How do you cater for different tastes?
We always try to have options that are suitable for all palates – it is a juggle, but we aim to provide nourishing and hearty home-cooked food. It’s a matter of pride for me, and I always try and put myself in the position of the people we serve, considering how I would like to be fed if I were on the other side of the counter.
What does a typical day look like for you?
- My first and main priority is always the smooth running of the kitchen, so that is where you will find me if Nour is not in, getting breakfast and lunch ready for our clients.
- I also plan our Community Lunch days, of which we have about two per month.
- I plan catering requirements for fundraising events at our conference venue, Cathedral View. The largest event I plan for is our annual Garden Party, where I cater for about 500 people!
- Another part of my role is teaching Food Hygiene Level 1 to kitchen volunteers, as I am a qualified trainer and a member of the Royal Society for Public Health.
How do the clients feel about the meals – what does it mean to them?
A lot of the people we support would have spent a horrible night out on the streets, and to receive a hot meal can mean the world. It can also help to lay the foundation for them to then go on to our other services and be more receptive in addressing any help they may need.
What are you planning for Christmas dinner?
I am planning a full roast dinner – turkey, beef, all the trimmings and more!
Want to get involved?
Join our team of Kitchen Volunteers
Follow in Claudette and the team’s footsteps by joining our team of dedicated volunteers. With flexible shift bookings, it’s never been easier to give back your time.
Provide someone with a hot meal
A donation of £10 to The Passage could help someone who has been impacted by homelessness, to receive a warm breakfast or lunch at our Resource Centre.