Maymessy, as an empowering cookery school, dedicates itself to providing greater wellbeing and life skills to marginalised groups and disadvantaged young people. Through its inclusive ethos, Maymessy extends its support to local charities in Oxfordshire, assisting young carers, individuals facing mental health challenges, families in financial distress, those with special complex needs, refugee families, and survivors of domestic abuse.
Maymessy offers a diverse range of activities including cookery classes, gardening sessions, events, and outdoor experiences, all aimed at nurturing the wellbeing of marginalised groups. These activities not only promote better health and wellbeing but also enhance participants’ skills and food knowledge under the guidance of expert chefs. Utilising a shared garden, participants learn about seasonality, grow their own produce, and engage in hands-on cooking experiences using freshly picked vegetables and fruits.
Furthermore, Maymessy provides upskilling opportunities, training, and mentoring for its beneficiaries, facilitating pathways into employment. Bespoke workshops cover topics such as cooking healthy recipes on a budget, addressing food and fuel poverty, and using cooking and gardening as therapeutic tools.
At the heart of Maymessy’s mission is the promotion of social inclusion, integration, and community cohesion in Oxfordshire. Through its activities and events, Maymessy fosters social mixing and provides a supportive environment for individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together and connect.
Situated in rural South Oxfordshire with picturesque views, Maymessy operates from a purpose-built cookery school. Supported by Maia, the chef and project manager, and a team of skilled volunteers, all of whom undergo rigorous DBS checks and receive safeguarding training, Maymessy stands as a welcome resource in Oxfordshire, offering transformative experiences and opportunities for growth.
Maymessy’s commitment to empowering marginalised groups and fostering community cohesion makes it a vital asset to the Oxfordshire community.
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Written by Jaime Hewett
OCVA Development Officer