Cook & Eat Project

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From February 2025 to March 2026 we ran a Cook & Eat project for asylum seekers in Southwark Home Office temporary accommodation. The project enhanced wellbeing by targeting food insecurity, enabling them to prepare and enjoy healthy, nutritious and culturally appropriate meals in a community setting.

The project was designed around the following key elements:

  • Weekly Sessions with 20 sessions delivered over 6 months.

  • Recipe and Ingredients: Participants are provided with the necessary ingredients to prepare a recipe of their choice.

  • Cooking Support: While the sessions are not intended as formal cooking lessons, participants do receive support to prepare their chosen recipes.

  • Communal Dining: After cooking, participants have the opportunity to enjoy their meals together at the venue, fostering a sense of community.

  • Session Duration: Each session lasts approximately 2.5 hours, comprising 1-1.5 hours of cooking and 45 minutes to 1 hour for dining.