Community groups invited to apply for funding to deliver Grow, Cook, Eat programme

06 January 2026

Voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations in West Northamptonshire are invited to apply for funding to deliver Grow, Cook, Eat, a programme that helps people learn how to grow food, cook healthy meals, and make better choices about nutrition, while supporting wellbeing and building stronger community connections.

West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has announced that £343,750 worth of funding is available over three years for a single collaborative bid to support the continuation of ‘Grow, Cook, eat’. The scheme aims to tackle food and health inequalities, while promoting healthier lifestyles and stronger communities.

‘Grow, Cook, Eat’ focuses on promoting healthy eating, by building the knowledge and skills people need to make healthier choices. The programme offers practical support to help residents learn how to eat well, cook simple meals, and grow their own food. It also helps improve mental wellbeing and brings communities together.

Since its launch in 2022, the programme has support communities across the area and built a team to deliver opportunities for:

• Sharing healthy eating, cooking and growing skills within local communities
• Training and supporting residents to become food champions
• Fostering a network of food champions across West Northants
• Managing a small grant process to support local groups

This new grant will enable the continuation of the established model and fund additional developments to further strengthen the programme.

The Grow, Cook, Eat programme is a fantastic example of how we bring communities together to improve health and wellbeing in families. By empowering people to make and share healthier choices, we tackle food inequalities while building stronger, more connected communities and families. We’re excited to see local groups come forward with collaborative ideas to help this programme grow even further.Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health at WNC

All applications must be submitted by 17 February 2026. To request an application form and guidance, please email: [email protected].