Newham Council is working with local provider ‘Nutrition Kitchen’ to deliver a cooking and play programme in locations around the borough. The programme introduces children and their families to healthy nutritious meals in a fun and innovative way, suitable for all.
The Covid-19 pandemic has led to an increase in unhealthy diets, reduced levels of activity and an increase in the prevalence of unhealthy weight in some of our communities. Newham Council wants to support residents by offering programmes for the whole family to enjoy and become part of a community of families on the journey to a healthy, happier life.
Newham’s very own ‘Nutrition Kitchen’ have a wealth of experience running programmes in the borough. During the Cook and Play sessions, families take part in cooking culturally appropriate recipes, play activities and behaviour change techniques covering a variety of topics including: cooking on a budget, portion control, label reading, healthy swaps, fussy eating, salt and sugar intake and much more.
The aim is to offer families emotional, social and physical support to enable them to overcome barriers in life to make changes to become fitter, healthier and happier. Families in Newham who would like to attend a session can contact Sandeep Floré Sandeep@nutrition-kitchen.co.uk or call 07526 580 621
Currently programmes are being run at Children’s Centres and primary schools in the borough.
All primary schools in Newham are welcomed to get in touch with Nutrition Kitchen if they too would like to host a Cook and Play session. Those interested in hosting sessions at their venue should contact Sandeep Floré Sandeep@nutrition-kitchen.co.uk or call 07526 580 621
Councillor Zulfiqar Ali, Cabinet Lead Member for Health and Adult Social Care says: “We are committed to making our borough the best place for children and young people to grow up to be happy, heathy, safe and thrive.
I am pleased that we have been able to collaborate with local provider ‘Nutrition Kitchen’ on this programme and my hope is that we can roll this out to more and more families and schools across the borough.”
Tollgate Primary School Head Teacher, Ms O’Conner said: “Here at Tollgate we are very grateful to have the opportunity to work with Nutrition kitchen. Our families have been hit hard by the pandemic. It has had a catastrophic effect both on the mental health and financial stability of our families. Nutrition Kitchen will teach our children and parents to eat healthy whilst being able to manage a tight budget.
Week one of working with Nutrition kitchen was such a huge success. The team were excellent. I cannot thank them enough.”
A parent also said:
“I really enjoyed going to the cooking club. Not only was I able to spend time with my child, it was also with other families at Tollgate Primary School. There was a variety of food and ingredients I had never used before, was a great way to explore new foods and tastes. I really think this group will help me and family to manage and prepare healthier meals at meal time.”