Oakwood Hall Recovery Chef Programme Receives Award Commendation

Innovative mental health support project recognised for community impact

Inspire North has been commended for its Community Impact Award entry, highlighting the work carried out at Oakwood Hall, a supported accommodation service in Leeds. The service offers long-term, trauma-informed mental health support to individuals with complex needs, providing a stable environment focused on wellbeing and independence.

Oakwood Hall’s Approach to Mental Health Support

Oakwood Hall specialises in supporting residents whose needs cannot be met elsewhere. Many residents stay for several years, allowing time to build trusted relationships and work towards recovery. The service’s approach is person centred, recognising each individual’s strengths, identity, and goals to foster meaningful recovery.

The Recovery Chef and Self-Catering Programme

The award commendation was based on the Recovery Chef and self-catering programme at Oakwood Hall. This project combines life skill development, practical cooking lessons, and therapeutic engagement. It follows the CHIME recovery model, which emphasises Connectedness, Hope, Identity, Meaning, and Empowerment.

The programme is structured in four stages, guiding residents from one-to-one cooking sessions to full independence in self-catering. It aims to give participants ownership of their recovery journey through a strengths-based approach.

Co-Production and Community Building

A notable feature of the programme is its emphasis on co-production. Residents work alongside staff to shape menus, plan activities, and contribute to the ongoing development of the programme. Participants build personal portfolios containing recipes, photographs, and reflections, which help them track their progress and growing confidence.

Group cooking sessions also serve to strengthen community bonds and reduce social isolation, factors that are beneficial for mental health recovery.

Impact and Outcomes

• 519 recovery sessions delivered over 11 months
• One resident completed 142 sessions and achieved full independence
• Most residents now self-cater on a weekly basis
• Improvements in confidence, resilience, and emotional wellbeing
• Significant gains in budgeting, organisation, and other essential life skills
• Better nutrition and increased food literacy through co-designed healthy menus

The commendation recognises the tangible benefits the programme has brought to residents’ lives, supporting their journey towards independent living and improved mental health.

For further information, visit Inspire North’s website.

Source: Doing Good Leeds