Celebrating the 10th Bereavement Cooking Course

Wednesday, 23 February 2024 saw the end of the 10th Bereavement Cooking Course funded by the Kenwood Community Fund via the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation.
Bereavement Cooking is a 6-week course for those recently bereaved, giving people the opportunity to refresh or learn new cooking skills, recipes, as well as meet and connect with others who also experienced loss.
For the last cooking session, the group hosted a tea party at Havant and South Downs College (HSDC) where the course is delivered, and invited their family and friends to sample their delicious bakes.
The afternoon tea party was filled with a great atmosphere, with the camaraderie formed between all Bereavement Cooking attendees radiating through the premises.
Sue Kell, a Rowans Hospice volunteer who has supported every Bereavement Cooking course to date said; “The Cookery course has been a great success. Participant feedback has been very positive. Many friendships have been made through sharing their stories and supporting each other whilst cooking. Laura, the Chef, is an excellent teacher who creates a relaxed and caring environment. Sometimes emotional but always fun. I have enjoyed supporting this very rewarding group.”
From learning to cook a risotto to apple pie, the group learned essential skills and recipes “It’s been a lovely course, I met some lovely people and I look forward to trying these recipes at home again!”, commented one of the course attendees.
Charlene, one of the course attendees, said; “A friend told me about the Living Well Services and I’m glad she did. Going there and having someone to talk to is a godsend!”
Following this course, the Living Well Services are starting a Cooking Club for anyone who has attended the Bereavement Cooking course and would like to continue learning skills and recipes. This new club is going to run for 8 weeks.
Our Living Well Services offer a range of activities and give individuals the opportunity to develop a network of people who can support and guide them. We are currently looking at ways to reach out beyond our premises through virtual groups and potential community hubs. https://www.rowanshospice.co.uk/care/living-well-services/
If you would like to attend the Bereavement Cooking or Cooking Club course or find out more about other groups and activities available, contact our Living Well Services on 023 9224 8011 or lwc@rowanshospice.co.uk.