Inspire North Receives Community Impact Award Commendation for Oakwood Hall’s Recovery Chef Programme
We’re thrilled to share that Inspire North has received a commendation for our Community Impact Award entry, recognising the innovative, person centred community work taking place at Leeds-based supported accommodation service Oakwood Hall.
Oakwood Hall provides long term, trauma informed mental health support for individuals whose needs cannot be met elsewhere. Residents often stay for several years, giving them the chance to build trusted relationships and experience a stable environment that supports wellbeing and independence.
The service’s approach is firmly grounded in person centred support, recognising each individual’s strengths, identity and goals, and creating the right conditions for deep, meaningful recovery.
The Recovery Chef & Self Catering Programme
Our submission for the award was centred around Oakwood Hall’s Recovery Chef and self-catering programme. This unique and innovative project brings together life skill development, practical cooking lessons and therapeutic engagement.
The programme is guided by the CHIME recovery model (Connectedness, Hope, Identity, Meaning, Empowerment) to help residents develop essential independent living skills.
It’s a four-stage progression, supporting residents from 1:1 cooking sessions to full independence. This strengths-based approach gives residents real ownership over their recovery journey.
Championing Co-Production
A key feature of the programme is that it promotes co-production deeply. Throughout the residents work alongside staff to shape menus, plan activities and contribute to the programme’s development.
Each person builds a personal portfolio of recipes, photos and reflections, helping them recognise their growing confidence and capability.
The group cooking sessions help strengthen community bonds and reduce isolation, which can only aid mental health recovery.
"Looking back at my folder makes me feel proud. I didn’t know I could do all this."
Client, Oakwood Hall
Real Impact
The commendation reflects the tangible difference the programme makes in residents’ lives.
Key outcomes include:
- 519 recovery sessions delivered over 11 months.
- One resident completed 142 sessions and achieved full independence.
- Most residents now self-cater weekly.
- Improved confidence, resilience and emotional well-being.
- Significant gains in budgeting, organisation, and other life skills essential for independent living.
- Better nutrition and increased food literacy through co designed, healthy menus.
"Cooking helps me feel in control. It’s something I can do for myself."
Client, Oakwood Hall
We’re incredibly proud of what Oakwood Hall has achieved - and excited to continue developing innovative, person-centred mental health services that make a real difference.