A healthy eating project in Derby a huge success. Earlier this year, Riverside working together with community charity Sova secured funding through Public Health England (PHE) to deliver ‘Healthy Food, Healthy Communities’.

Families from Derby’s City Point estate took part in the first batch cooking scheme of its kind. Residents learned how to prepare and batch cook healthy, cheap, tasty meals at twice weekly sessions held over 4 months. It was a fantastic opportunity for people share the extra food created to help their neighbours while gaining knowledge and skills, including a food hygiene certificate.

Riverside community engagement manager Rupa Chandarana organised the project:

“It’s been a great way for the City Point community to come together and make a difference. Older and more vulnerable neighbours, as well as homeless individuals at Riverside scheme Centenary House benefited from meals being delivered to them by families, building better relationships within the community. The first healthy eating scheme to feature batch cooking funded by PHE has been a huge success.”

The project originated from a suggestion from City Point resident, Rachel Taylor, who wanted more to be done to teach people how to cook healthy food on a limited budget. Sova was responsible for delivering the cookery sessions in Derby.

Chief Nutritionist at Public Health England, Dr Alison Tedstone said: “We are delighted to see such a successful project being recognised. Social landlords like Riverside play an important role in local communities and are in a unique position to encourage their residents to eat a healthy balanced diet and ultimately improve their health.”

The 24Housing Awards are held in October when the winners will be announced.