Grow, Cook, Eat!

Grow Your Own Food in Barking and Dagenham!

Are you interested in food growing in Barking & Dagenham?

Barking and Dagenham residents have told us they would like to see more local food growing spaces, training opportunities and activities (the Good Food Plan 2022).

And so, we have developed a growing program and are working with three local food growing initiatives. Fruitful Orchard CIC, Thames Life CDT and Company Drinks are working with the council to support residents to grow their own food.

Join the team at Barking Food Forest for activities and workshops on all aspects of growing your own food, from seed-sowing to harvesting (and eating!) your homegrown produce.

Events are free and no experience is required. Have a look at the dates and times and how to sign up here .

Join a Cooking Session in Barking and Dagenham!

Come and cook with us! and join one of our cooking sessions which are taking place across the borough. Food is a great connector so come along to share your favourite recipes and food stories, learn new skills and meet others in your community that are passionate about food. You don't have to know lots about cooking to join in - everyone has something to contribute!

Our cooking sessions are currently taking place in a number of community settings across the borough. Have a look at the dates, times and locations here

As well as our cooking sessions which are open to everyone, we have cooking sessions for 8-19 year olds (up to 25 for people with additional needs) after school on Monday's and Tuesday's at the Future Youth Zone. And, for Primary School students after school on Monday's and Thursday's at Urban Promise at St Mark's Church Centre. Find out more here.

For information about the other work we’re doing related to food in the borough, visit our webpage and sign up to our mailing list.