Community growing and cooking programme gets £344k

A scheme teaching people how to grow food and cook healthy meals has received funding of almost £344,000.

The money, from West Northamptonshire Council, will help urban and rural residents "to make better choices about nutrition", the local authority said.

The programme - which started in 2022 - will continue to be delivered through a partnership led by Grow, Cook, Eat, run by the Hope Centre. The funding covers a period from July 2026 to March 2028.

Laura Couse, cabinet member for adult care and public health at the Reform UK-led council, said: "Grow, Cook, Eat is making a real difference by helping people build the skills, confidence and understanding they need to make healthier choices."

So far, more than 119 community champions have been trained by the programme, 35 small grants have been distributed, and some 45 local organisations have been involved in delivering activities to date.

Organisers said participants reported increased confidence in cooking, a better understanding of healthy eating and improved ability to prepare meals on a budget.

Many have also made positive changes such as cooking more from scratch and using more fresh ingredients.

The council said the programme reaches a wide range of communities, including low-income families, people in supported housing, and diverse groups, helping to reduce inequalities and improve long-term health outcomes.

Hope Centre said it was planning to introduce more schemes for children and families and employment pathways for people.

In a statement, the organisation said: "By embedding knowledge, skills and leadership within local communities, Grow, Cook, Eat will create a sustainable legacy of community-led action that supports prevention, reduces demand on public services and contributes to West Northamptonshire Council's long-term ambition of enabling residents to live healthier, more resilient lives."

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