Bridlington Salvation Army launches cooking on a budget course

A course which teaches people how to cook healthy meals on a budget has launched at Bridlington Salvation Army. 

The church and charity’s Victory Programme is a six-week course inspired by the resourcefulness shown during the Second World War. Participants are taught how to make a range of one pot meals for as little as £1 per portion. 

The free course is also aimed at tackling isolation in the community, bringing participants together in a warm and welcoming environment where they can build confidence and make friends. 

Led by Victory Programme Co-ordinator Gill Armstrong with support from Community Care Ministries Secretary Jane Dickinson, it runs on a Friday morning in groups of six at the church hall in Wellington Road. 

Gill said: “We’ve got our first cohort at the moment and they've been amazing. They’ve made chicken curry, bacon hot pot and hunter’s chicken. Last week they went away with four double portions of chill con carne, made out of 250g of mince and plenty of veggies, which worked out about £1.20 per portion. 

“Talking about cost and budgeting is a big part of the course. A ready meal these days probably costs between £3 to £5, but we can make meals here for as little as a pound that can be frozen and last for a few days.  

“We’re also working with our food bank volunteers to tailor it to what they are providing in food parcels. We often give out pasta so looked at how to make an affordable and tasty pasta sauce. 

“I was lucky because I had a grandma and mum who cooked so I picked those skills up, but not everybody has that. We’re all learning from each other, sharing tips on recipes, how to use herbs, or how to cut onions without crying! 

“It’s not just about learning to cook, it’s also about building confidence, learning new skills and tackling isolation within our communities. Once this course has finished, we’re hoping some of our learners will feel able to return to help mentor the next cohort.” 

One participant Rebecca, 42, said: “It’s been great. I could do basic cooking, but I couldn't do what we’ve learned here so far. I take the meal home for me and my partner, and we’ve usually got an extra portion that we can have for tea the next day too. 

“It’s been really nice to come to The Salvation Army. I can sit and talk to the volunteers if I have something on my mind. I’ve got to know new people through this course and the drop-in they run on a Monday. I would have struggled without The Salvation Army.” 

Another participant said it’s helped get her out of the house. She said: “If it wasn't for this place, I'd be agoraphobic to be honest. My depression has been very bad because of some of the things I’ve been through in the past, so this place is like a lighthouse to me.

“I live alone so if I’ve made a meal I can freeze it and it will last me a few days.” 

Colin, 62, volunteers at the Monday drop-in, called the One Stop Shop, but looking to improve his cooking skills and get out of the house, he joined the Victory Programme. He said: “Here the meals will last me from Friday dinner time through to Sunday.

“I’ve met people I relate to, who are going through similar things. I’d been by myself, recovering from the death of my wife, so being here has brought me out of myself.” 
 

The Victory Programme runs on Friday mornings between 10am and 12pm. They are also exploring setting up a six-week baking course. Bridlington Salvation Army also runs the One Stop Shop, which offers breakfast, a warm space, food parcel and signposting on a Monday morning, a Games Afternoon on a Wednesday and Bible Study on a Thursday as well as Sunday Worship. 

Community Care Ministries Secretary Jane added: “Our One Stop Shop is growing to meet the high level of need in Bridlington. This is not just about providing practical support in the form of a food parcel, but helping people feel less isolated. Coming here they are part of a community. This has also led to attendance at our Sunday Worship growing.” 

If you are interested in taking part in the Victory Programme please contact Gill on 01262 603009 or email gillian.armstrong@salvationarmy.org.uk