Cooking with Jo Capper and Sandwell Youth Services

During June and July 2025, Multistory and artist-chefs, Jo Capper and Jenni Capper, worked with a group of young people from Sandwell Youth Service on a series of cooking sessions at Malthouse Stables in Tipton. Part of Multistory’s Green Roots programme, these weekly workshops explored the rich connection between food, creativity and sustainability. Through hands-on workshops, young people built confidence in the kitchen, developed practical cooking skills and began thinking more deeply about where their food comes from. The programme was designed to give space for young people to explore and express their ideas about the world around them through food and cooking.

The young people explored food and cooking not just as daily tasks but as a community-minded and creative practice that promotes environmental consciousness and green choices. The workshops gave participants the tools to feel capable, creative and connected to food and the confidence to make informed food choices, reduce waste and feel able to cook something for themselves – whether at home or for others – building their independence.

Over six weeks, the group learned how to read and adapt recipies, use kitchen equipment safely, prepare ingredients and make healthy choices about food. They put this learning into practice by creating some delicious dishes, including smoothie bowls, three kinds of pasta sauce, tacos, honey chilli noodles, pancakes and homemade flatbreads.

We’ve really enjoyed being able to offer the young people this brilliant opportunity to try new things, build everyday life skills and enjoy cooking and eating together.

A huge well done to everyone who took part and a big thank you to Jo and Jenni for sharing their food wisdom and energy each week.