Residents in Crumpsall have found affordable ways to cook tasty meals and make healthy changes to their nutrition thanks to cooking sessions organised by Jigsaw’s Neighbourhood Engagement Team.
Officer Gemma Batchelor hosted cooking sessions on a budget at Rainbow Surprise’s community hub to help local residents learn how to cook healthy meals alongside gaining an AQA qualification in an introduction to cooking.
This six-week course was delivered by Michelle from Clippy’s and aimed to educate on how to reduce food waste, reduce shopping bills and eat a healthy balanced diet.
One resident said: “I suffer with my mental and physical health, so these cooking sessions have been a lifeline. It has helped me in ways I don’t have the words to describe and the input from the professionals has been amazing.
“I have learned so much and met some amazing individuals. I’ve learnt to allow myself to enjoy an activity that I have not allowed myself in years and years.”
Gemma also teamed up with Rainbow Surprise and Manchester Active to organise a week of half-term fun for local children.
The children took part in several arts and crafts sessions and even took a trip to Aviva Studios to try out afro beats drumming and dancing.
