Joe cooks up a storm in the kitchen

Chicken curry and meatballs were among the dishes prepared

A ‘Masterchef’ cook up was held at our service in the Forest of Dean – to create tasty treats for the freezer.

Joe, who is supported at Hft’s Ormiston residential service in Coleford, decided he wanted to prepare for autumn by getting a batch of meals prepared for the freezer.

Joe chose a range of meals he wanted to create, deciding on Shepherd’s Pie, Chicken Curry, Chicken Stir Fry and homemade meatballs.

Support practitioner Sian Davis helped Joe plan the menu and draw up a shopping list of ingredients

The pair spent the afternoon in the kitchen, cooking while listening to their favourite music.

Joe said: “I had a great time.

“Sian was my sous chef and I was Gordon Ramsay minus the swearing.

“We got the tunes on and got cracking.

“I did everything myself from scratch.

“Although Sian didn’t even touch a knife she managed to cut her finger so I had to do first aid.

“After I helped Sian I got back to cooking and cooked up a storm.

“I wanted Spaghetti and meatballs for tea and it was delicious.

“I will be planning my next batch cook day soon.”

Hft’s Coleford service supports four learning disabled men in their 20s who enjoy a variety of activities.

There is a themed party evening every month as well as a ‘foods of the world’ cooking night.

Individuals enjoy regular days out and trips to enjoy activities including swimming and bowling.

Each of the young men have their own self-contained flat within the building, enabling them to live as independently as possible.