For the last 20 years I have had the absolute pleasure of teaching cookery, art and horticulture to and supporting adults with a range of learning disabilities, autism, mental health, social anxiety and low confidence.
Sadly funding issues have meant that these classes are no longer going to be available to the vulnerable people and their families who benefit from them.
I cant stand back and let this happen, knowing how much it brings to people's lives, so I'm appealing for help to carry on these vital cookery workshops myself, working towards a self funding social enterprise to benefit the local learning disabled community and their loved ones.
My cookery classes are known for being fun, friendly, inclusive, educational and delicious! They have improved confidence beyond bounds, allowed closet chefs to blossom, taught vital life and in some cases work skills; with a few budding chefs having secured jobs in local cafes as a result.
They have sometimes been a lifeline to struggling families who welcome not having to cook for a night or at last have a helper at mealtimes.
Lasting friendships have formed over the hobs and everyone feels valued and welcome and supports each other...'teamwork' is our motto.
I have found a suitable venue, have students interested and excited already but just need some initial help to get started. There'll be rent to pay, utensils, folders, aprons and ingredients to buy for starters. I really want to make this happen, it really needs to happen. Thank you for your support x