Demand for 'vital' Meals on Wheels services expected to rise across Cork 

The HSE has said that demand for Meals on Wheels services is expected to increase “substantially” over the coming years.

There are 49 registered Meals on Wheels groups in Cork which receive funding from the HSE and other government departments.

The groups received €1.3m for 2026, an increase of just under €20,000 since 2024.

At the latest Regional Health Forum meeting, a spokesperson for the HSE said it would work to maintain the service demands over the coming years, despite Cork’s growing and ageing population.

“Meals on Wheels services are largely provided by the voluntary sector in this region,” the HSE spokesperson said.

“Organisations receive funding from a range of sources such as the HSE, Pobal dormant accounts, National Lottery, 4 CLÁR, and other various government department and agency grants,” they added. 

They noted that the population in Cork is growing and ageing, meaning demand for supports such as Meals on Wheels and other services is projected to increase substantially.

“We will maintain our efforts to meet the service demands of this region within available capacity and funding. These services are fundamental to the health and wellbeing of our older population, and access to such services can play a key role in enabling older people to live independently for longer in their communities.”

Great demand

Speaking to The Echo, advocate for older persons in Cork, Paddy O’Brien, said there is a great demand for Meals on Wheels in the region.

“At the moment, I know there is a waiting list for some Meals on Wheels services, but if a person wants Meals on Wheels, they should be able to get it,” said Mr O’Brien.

“This service is vital. It is the duty of the HSE to provide this service. There are senior citizens that are suffering, and that €1.3m is not enough. There have been so many cutbacks, and the lives of elderly people have been impacted.”

Fianna Fáil councillor for the Cobh electoral area, Dominic Finn, said Meals On Wheels provides an invaluable service to some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.

“While the financial assistance provided is very much welcomed and appreciated, funding has remained largely unchanged for a number of years despite rising costs for food, fuel, insurance, and utilities,” said Mr Finn.

“As our population continues to age, and demand for these services increases, I am asking the HSE, together with other funding partners, to plan ahead and ensure funding grows in line with need.”