COOKING courses have been set up to help council house tenants who are facing serious financial difficulties during the cost-of-living crisis.

Colchester Borough Homes and C3 Impact initially ran the courses for six weeks to teach participants to set budgets, plan meals, batch cook, and make the most of leftover meals.

The courses were funded by Active Essex, with a further £4,000 provided by CBH community funding to support ongoing courses. 

One participant, who had recently lost his wife and was struggling to cook for his family, said he had no idea where to start when it came to cooking, but added he was much better equipped to provide for his children by the end of the course.

Philip Sullivan, the chief executive at CBH, said: “We know that many local residents are struggling to make ends meet and the cooking on a budget course is a great way to help them save money on their food bills. 

“This is another great example of how CBH is helping residents get by during some very challenging times.”

Further cooking on a budget courses, which are free of charge for tenants in Colchester council homes, are set to take place in September and November.

More information is available by contacting resident.engagement@cbhomes.org.uk.