A new cooking program in Guernsey is aiming to equip parents with the skills to prepare healthy and convenient meals. The initiative seeks to address rising rates of overweight and obesity in the bailiwick.
Guernsey's Healthier Weight Strategy identifies healthier eating as a priority, with over 57% of adults and nearly a third of Year 5 children classified as overweight or obese. The cooking classes are designed to help participants develop practical life skills and gain confidence in the kitchen.
Rebecca Silk, the centre's operations manager, stated that the program's goal is to inspire individuals to try new foods and learn everyday cooking techniques. Parent Ros de Carteret shared that the classes have boosted her confidence, noting the challenges faced by working parents who may lack the time to learn traditional cooking methods. "We don't have time to learn everyday cooking, and you go into the shops, and everything is pre-packed," de Carteret said. She also highlighted the potential for learning home cooking to help families save money.
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The program aims to provide accessible recipes that can be made conveniently, acknowledging the time constraints faced by many families. By teaching fundamental cooking skills, the initiative hopes to empower parents to make healthier choices for their households and contribute to the broader health goals outlined in the local strategy.