The Victory Programme

The Victory Programme: Cooking up confidence and community connection

The Victory Programme began in Crook, a community facing significant challenges including poverty, isolation, and limited access to resources. It was created as a practical response to the growing need for support around cooking, budgeting, and community connection.  

The Salvation Army developed this six-week course to help people learn how to prepare affordable, nutritious meals, make the most of their ingredients, and build confidence in the kitchen. Rooted in the values of resilience and togetherness, the programme has grown to support individuals and families across the UK, offering not just cooking skills, but also friendship, dignity, and hope. 

Sarah, 36, first connected with The Salvation Army through volunteering at the Keighley charity shop. When she heard about the Victory Programme she decided to give it a try. Having never been taught how to cook and feeling the pressure of the cost-of-living crisis, Sarah saw it as a chance to learn something new and stretch her money further.

“Rachel showed us what you can do with, £35 a month. We’ve made chicken stir fry, sausage casserole, lasagne and a Chinese chicken curry, which would cost £15 to £20 as a takeaway, whereas we’re making it for a fiver. You realise you can do it, and that it’s easy.”

Sarah’s experience didn’t end with the course. She returned to support others taking part and now volunteers four days a week in both the charity shop and the café. Her confidence has flourished, and she’s found a sense of belonging and purpose.

“It’s given me confidence and social skills that I think were lost during the Covid pandemic. The café is a calm, peaceful place. We laugh all the time and meet so many different people.” 

Join the Journey

Whether you're looking to learn new skills, meet others, or simply cook smarter on a budget, the Victory Programme is here to help. It’s more than a course, it’s a community.

Find your nearest Salvation Army on our map page.

For more information about the Victory Programme in other parts of the UK, contact our Community Services Department by email at: communityservices@salvationarmy.org.uk 

Of course, we couldn’t do what we do without support from people like yourself. If you are in a position to give, your support could make a real difference.