Cookery classes aim to combat cost-of-living crisis

Two new cooking courses are launching to help Salford residents survive on tight budgets as the cost-of-living crisis worsens.

With more than 60 per cent of adults reporting that they are struggling with the cost of living crisis, Salford Council is keen to make it more manageable for city residents.

The four-week Cook ‘n’ Keep course teaches group goers on how to make meals on a tight budget. It also offers them the chance to engage in ingredient swaps and batch cooking so they can continue to afford to eat healthily for the lowest possible price.

Since 2004, Salford Council’s Health Improvement Service has been committed to support individuals to improve their health and wellbeing. One of their main aims with these classes is to hopefully reduce a number of illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke and cancer, that can potentially be avoided with if more active lifestyles are led – both now and in the future.

John Merry, the Deputy City Mayor and Lead Member for Adult Services, Health and Wellbeing, said: ” Our aim is to help people enjoy healthy lifestyles.”

Support is available in several areas such as for quitting smoking, learning how to cook healthier meals, how to enjoy exercise and how to meet new people – while even enjoying it.

The class provides both one to one support and group projects. The classes, as well as being informative, take pride on their inclusiveness. Interpreters are available if required in order to accommodate for anyone who may be interested. it began mid January and is hosted at Great Clowes Street

Salford City Council is also running another similar course until the end of March, ‘Thrifty Plates’. Also as a four week course, it enables people to learn how to make nutritious meals in a slow cooker – and even gifts them one to take home in week three so they have the ability to use their newfound skill forever.

Mr Merry continued: “The Thrifty Plates and Cook and Keep courses have proved very popular, particularly with current pressures on household budgets.”

Places are limited by anyone interested in joining can find out more here. Alternatively, support with cost of living can be found at Salford Council’s website.