- Time together uninterrupted by other people or phones
- Improving confidence through learning new skills
- Encouraging adults and children to try new foods and activities increases their willingness to try other things together that they wouldn’t usually
- Bringing in hard-to-reach people. For example, schools have told us that some parents who have attended our courses with their children have not previously engaged in other ways
- Increasing family cohesion
- Better behaviour and study results from better-fed children
- Teaching children practical fine motor and numeracy skills
Meet Sally
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.





















