A Sunderland-based project which will deliver a series of cookery workshops with local residents to teach practical tips on reducing food waste has been successful in its recent bid for funding.
The funding has been awarded via the Greener Communities programme, a grant-making initiative which was launched by Esh Construction earlier this year in partnership with County Durham Community Foundation.
Through a series of ‘Waste Not!’ workshops, participants will expand their repertoire of dishes and learn how to make their food go further with advice on shopping wisely and making the most of food in the fridge. There will also be emphasis on food portioning, labelling and storage.
The workshops will be delivered by Social Chef – a local organisation which delivers a range of cookery courses and food integration activities – between two delivery sites at Roker Life in North Sunderland and Luke’s Centre.
Alan Croft, construction manager at Esh Construction, said: “The Social Chef’s ‘Waste Not’ project is an excellent way to educate people on reducing their food waste and living more sustainably, and in turn, given the cost of living crisis and rising food prices, it can also help families reduce the cost of their food bill.
“As a local contractor, we are proud to pledge our support to this project and allow more people to access the workshops and additional support.”
Further waste reduction measures will come via new community compost stations which Social Chef will set up in the SR4 and SR6 areas. Locals will be encouraged to attend a community composting workshop which will educate people on the types of everyday food which can be composted.
Laura Lynch, project manager at Social Chef, said: “We are thrilled to be a part of Esh’s Greener Communities programme. We are passionate about working with local communities, and hope to empower people with the skills and confidence to make their food go further, reducing food waste and saving money.”
Esh’s Greener Communities programme will help communities become ‘greener’ through carbon reduction, environmental improvement and education projects. A fund of £50,000 was allocated to support projects which are centred around green skills, climate resilience, improving green spaces and habitats.
Esh Construction has recently completed a public realm scheme on Seaburn promenade working on behalf of Sunderland City Council. A raft of improvement works, including new street furniture, seating, paving and planters, has been installed from Lowry Road to Dykelands Road to enhance the look of the city’s seafront.
The Social Chef’s ‘Waste Not’ project is an excellent way to educate people on reducing their food waste and living more sustainably, and in turn, given the cost of living crisis and rising food prices, it can also help families reduce the cost of their food bill. As a local contractor, we are proud to pledge our support to this project and allow more people to access the workshops and additional support.”
