Lesson series

Supporting a Person to Eat and Drink 

You’ve checked the meal plan, set up the tray just right, and done everything by the book. Then—wham!—you’re wearing their lunch like it’s part of the uniform.

Welcome to the real world of supporting someone to eat and drink!

This isn’t just about food. It’s about frustration, connection, culture, control, safety, dignity—and how you hold it all in one moment. If you’ve ever felt thrown by a meal gone wrong (or just messy), this one’s for you.

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Why this Care Training course?

Supporting someone to eat and drink isn’t just about handing over a spoon—it’s about respecting their mana, ensuring their dignity, and keeping them safe. Whether someone is on a texture-modified diet, using adaptive equipment, or just needs a quiet environment to eat comfortably, your support makes a difference.
When we understand why each step matters—like checking care plans, preparing food safely, or recognising signs of swallowing difficulty—it changes how we show up. This training is about more than compliance. It’s about noticing, slowing down, and adapting with empathy.
Meet the instructor

Roxane McLellan

Roxane McLellan is a New Zealand Registered Nurse with decades of experience supporting older adults and people with disabilities. Her early training focused on young people with physical disabilities, and over her career she has worked across a wide range of care environments, including continuing care hospitals, rest homes, and dementia-specific services.

Roxane has held leadership roles in both public and private settings, including as a facility manager and lecturer for undergraduate nursing students. She brings deep clinical knowledge, a calm presence, and a strong commitment to person-centred care.
Patrick Jones - Course author