Tell us a little about yourself

Hello, my name is Scott. I live in Bedfordshire with my wife and our little dog Ada.

Why did you decide to volunteer with Food etc?

I decided to volunteer for Food etc to share my passion for cooking and get more involved in the local community.

What do you enjoy most about working with Food etc?

I love being able to make and share yummy and nutritious food with the families and young people who come to our sessions. I also love encouraging people to try new foods they haven’t had before.

What would you say to someone considering to volunteer with Food etc?

Every session with Food etc is different and there is never a dull day. Sharing my free time is so rewarding and I would encourage anyone considering volunteering to give it a go.

What is your healthy go-to meal?

My favourite go-to healthy meal is a homemade chicken noodle soup. It’s fresh, comforting, and packed with vegetables.

Tell us a little about yourself

I worked in the food industry for 40+ years, developing tasty foods that are good for you, affordable and convenient. Throughout my career I was lucky enough to travel the world and be introduced to different cultures and their foods and ways of cooking. I was honoured and proud to have cooked for 1000s of people in the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Punjab. Here, the langar (community kitchen) is the world’s largest kitchen serving a free, vegetarian meal to all visitors. I was also immensely lucky to have worked and lived in Brazil for over 10 years.

Why did you decide to volunteer with Food etc?

I’m lucky enough to be retired and have some spare time to give something back to the community. Food etc is an amazing organisation full of wonderful people who all share my passion for food – what’s not to like?

What do you enjoy most about working with Food etc?

The most rewarding thing is watching the participants learn a new skill or try a new ingredient or product.

What would you say to someone considering volunteering with Food etc?

If you love cooking and talking and have some free time, please come to one of our cooking sessions to see what happens. You will find it very rewarding and a lot of fun.

What is your healthy go-to meal?

For an evening meal I make my own spag bol, using lean minced beef plus 2 large, grated carrots (fiber & sweetness), finely chopped celery (heart & digestive health), canned diced tomatoes, passata, mixed herbs and an oxo cube, and served with wholegrain spaghetti. It’s a versatile recipe – add some red kidney beans and chili powder and you have chili con carne.

Tell us a little about yourself

I grew up in a few places across the UK, which exposed me to different foods – from pie, mash and liquor with my grandparents in London to Bara Brith in North Wales. After uni I worked for several food companies where I worked on everything from poppadoms to chocolate spread to Christmas turkeys. It was a lot of fun but with the arrival of my twins I decided to take a break and instead spend time with them, a lot of which we spend cooking/baking/making a constructive mess in the kitchen.

Why did you decide to volunteer with Food etc?

I grew up in a very low–income household and although my Nan taught me some great basics of cooking, we basically lived on jarred pasta sauce and ready meals. After uni I decided my bank balance, physical and mental health could all be helped by learning to cook. I started by tweaking the recipes I did know to use less meat (to save money), reduce carbs (to lose some weight) and add more fruit and veg (to be all round a bit healthier).

I decided to volunteer with Food etc because not everyone has the time, resources or inspiration to start a journey themselves, and what we eat impacts so many areas of our lives. Hopefully I can help guide some people to try new things, save a bit of money, and maybe even feel more creative in the kitchen.

What do you enjoy most about working with Food etc?

I enjoy meeting new people and learning about different backgrounds and cultures. It has also inspired me to try recipes I would not necessarily seek out, and they have become part of my meal plans.

What would you say to someone considering volunteering with Food etc?

Just come and try it; there are always other volunteers willing to help and lots of support to get you started.

What is your healthy go-to meal?

Probably tomato soup. It’s a full meal that is so easy to make, everyone in the house eats it, it stores well in the fridge or freezer, and you can use it as a thin pasta sauce. All you need are tomatoes – fresh or canned – just add seasoning and blend. Want to up your protein? Add lentils. Need a vitamin boost? Pop in onion/garlic/carrots/celery. Feeling fancy? Use sundried tomatoes in the base or add balsamic vinegar to garnish.

 

Tell us a little about yourself

I moved to Bedfordshire from Surrey with my husband almost 50 years ago. I have two grown-up children and four grandchildren.

I have been retired for 13 years but previously worked in a customer service/compliance role.

After giving up work I wanted to give something back to the community and so I volunteered at my local school, twice a week, listening to children read. I found it very rewarding, seeing how children improved and developed their reading skills.

Why did you decide to volunteer with Food etc?

After moving near to her, I was approached by Julie, who thought I might be a suitable candidate to join as a volunteer. She is very persuasive! As food and cooking for family and friends is my passion, I was happy to give it a go and share any knowledge I have to help others.

What do you enjoy most about working with Food etc?

I have enjoyed meeting the other volunteers who are happy to share their knowledge and experiences. I have also enjoyed the challenge of working with the different groups and seeing how happy they feel when they have prepared and cooked something nutritious and tasty.

What would you say to someone considering volunteering with Food etc?

I would definitely advise them to have a go. The other volunteers are always ready to support and advise when needed. Furthermore, it is a rewarding experience when you have a few hours a week to spare.

What is your healthy go-to meal?

I would choose Asian salmon packed with lots of fresh vegetables.

Tell us a bit about yourself

I’m from New Zealand originally and have been living in the UK since 1981.

I’ve recently retired after a very rewarding and varied career in education. I’ve been a special needs advisor, a head teacher, an educational case manager with looked-after teenagers, team leader and advisory teacher with Traveller Education and a class teacher before that.

I have 3 grown-up daughters. My father is Italian, so I grew up with a love of good food and cooking.

Why did you decide to volunteer with Food etc?

I came across Food etc when Julie came to give a talk to the Learning for Pleasure group as it was this year’s nominated charity. I had set up and run cooking clubs at the school I was head at, so volunteering was a no brainer really.

What do you enjoy most about working with Food etc?

I love meeting different groups, both adults and children, and as someone new to the area it’s been a great way to meet like-minded people.

What would you say to someone considering volunteering with Food etc?

Volunteering is really rewarding and I’ve already learnt new skills and recipes.

What is your go-to healthy meal?

My favourite healthy go-to meal is orecchiette pasta cooked Calabrian style with broccoli, anchovies, garlic, chilli and Parmesan. One pot no fuss.

I’m Michael and I love being around people and helping out. I live in a supported living place with my friend, and I love to cook my own meals.  I am vegetarian and love trying out new healthy recipes. I enjoy my job At Centerparcs two days a week, and at weekends I like going to shows and the cinema. One day I would like to be in a movie myself and be famous!

My mum asked if I’d like to help out and I love it. I’m able to teach kids what I’ve learnt and also get to cook the meals myself sometimes. It all helps me be more independent.

I love eating healthy meals and I’m always checking the food in the shops with my phone app because some stuff looks healthy but it often has loads of sugar or chemicals in it that are bad for you.

My favourite thing to cook and eat is veggie curries.

Tell us a little about yourself

Born in Canada, brought up in Kenya and finally settling in England in my late teens, I am a solicitor and director/partner at Austin and Carnley Solicitors. During my career in the criminal justice system, which started in 1998, I have seen a lot of good and bad. It has shown me that life is not always as straightforward as it seems. It has made me realise that there should always be help for people who, through whatever circumstances, cannot help themselves.

Outside of work I enjoy sports a lot. I have just taken up open-water swimming and enjoy early morning mountain bike rides through Bedfordshire and beyond. I love watching rugby (having stopped playing in 2007).

Why did you decide to volunteer with Food etc?

I was drawn to Food etc because its mission aligns strongly with my own values. Food is more than nutrition – it’s dignity, community and possibility. I want to be part of an organisation that helps people in need and empowers them through skills, education and shared experience. Food etc felt like the perfect place to contribute my time and energy in a meaningful way.

What do you enjoy most about working with Food Etc?

The people. So far I have met Julie and Jennie through networking and have admired them and their commitment to Food etc. I have met the other Board members as well and they are equally as committed to Food etc. I am looking forward to meeting everyone else and contributing as well.

Have you had any challenges?

As a person with a broad smile and gregarious attitude to life my biggest challenge is to stop talking in the office (comes down to all the advocacy I do in Court!).

What would you say to someone considering volunteering with Food Etc?

Do it. You don’t need to be an expert just bring your willingness to help and an open heart. Food etc. welcomes people as they are, and there’s a role for every personality and skill set. You will learn a lot, meet wonderful people, and feel the difference you are making from day one.

What’s your go to healthy meal – inspire us?

After a long bike ride my go to is an onion, cheese and oregano omelette with avocado on the side and washed down with tea from the farm in Kenya where I spent my childhood.

About me

My name is Elke Rockey. I am married with two boys: one who is a fussy eater and one who eats anything! I really enjoy cooking and baking, especially trying new foods and recipes. I quite like hosting so I have an excuse to try something a bit more difficult. I am known to spend all day in my kitchen with my apron on. I really like to champion things that help give children a great foundation for their futures.

Why did you decided to volunteer with Food etc?

I have always worked with young children particularly around safeguarding. And I have found great pleasure in cooking with them and helping them and their families learn about healthy affordable choices.

I feel it is so important to have health knowledge to make a positive contribution to anyone’s life, whatever your age, but especially as part of the foundation for the best start in life.

I am in more of a background role for Food etc, but the concept to educate people about healthy food is something I am passionate about.

What do you enjoy most about working with Food etc?

The people. Such a lovely group to be around while giving back to the community. I have also started at a time the organisation is evolving and growing, which is exciting.

What would you say to someone considering volunteering with Food etc?

Please do. There are a range of things that organisations need volunteers for. Let us know what you can do, and we will happily welcome you.

What’s your go-to healthy meal?

I love vegetables. When I am working from home, I will chop up some aubergine, courgette, sweet potato, peppers, tomatoes (and whatever else needs using up) with some halloumi. I will air fry with a little oil and salt and hey presto! Delicious, filling lunch.

Tell us a little about yourself

I’m Sally Overton. I live in Bedford with my husband and have a grown-up daughter who moved away a few years ago.  Just over 10 years ago I changed to a gluten-free diet which really made a difference to symptoms I had.  It was a challenge at first, but once I had found substitutes, I enjoyed experimenting without resorting to buying overly processed gluten-free products.  I also really enjoy going along with friends to music festivals.

Why did you decide to volunteer with Food etc?

Healthy eating is important and can have a huge impact on long-term health.  I have previously volunteered and found it very fulfilling so when I looked on the CVS website, the work Food etc was doing really appealed to me.

What do you enjoy most about working with Food etc?

I have been teaching 3-4-year-olds with their parents.  It’s lovely to see their faces light up when they see and taste food they have cooked themselves.  They’re also more willing to try different foods.

Have you had any challenges?

Initially there is a lot to think about, but you soon get used to it and get to know what to prepare in advance.

What would you say to someone considering volunteering with Food etc?

Just give it a go – it’s my first time teaching, it has been a great experience and you’re well supported.

What’s your go-to healthy meal?

I enjoy a variety of meals using fresh ingredients but particularly like homemade curries using fresh herbs and spices.  I also enjoy making desserts using less sugar and more fruit.

 

 

 

My name is Anne Pike, a retired lecturer who is passionate about the ability of education to improve the lives of everyone, especially those who are less fortunate and vulnerable.

I also enjoy cooking. Therefore, when I heard about Food etc I was keen to help to educate people in Bedford to buy and cook good, healthy food for less.

It’s quite challenging at times as we sometimes work in rather cramped conditions but I can see how well it is being received. It is a great feeling when you see people developing their skills and realising they CAN cook and those funny vegetables actually taste rather good.