FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who can enrol for Cook + Connect? Cook + Connect is designed for NDIS participants who want to build cooking skills, confidence, and independence. Whether you’re new to the kitchen, enjoy social activities, or are working towards community participation or employment goals, there’s a program to suit you
What types of programs are available? We offer three program types: 1: Cook + Connect @Home: one-on-one support in your own kitchen, tailored to your goals. 2. Cook + Connect @Centre: small group sessions in a community kitchen, with social activities and shared meals. 3. Cook + Connect @Work: real café experience at Ben’s Café, Lawson, learning both front and back of house hospitality skills
How long does each program run? All programs are run in 10-week terms. - @Home: 2–2.5 hour sessions, flexible days/times. - @Centre: 4 hours face-to-face + prep time, once a week. - @Work: 4.5 hours per week, one day a week at Ben’s Café
What will I learn? Depending on the program, you can learn: - Food safety, hygiene, and knife skills - Meal planning, budgeting, and shopping - Portion control and healthy eating habits - Customer service, teamwork, and time management - Preparing, serving, and cleaning up meals in real-world settings
How much does it cost? Program costs vary by type: @Home: Up to $1,801.30 per 10-week term (2-hour sessions). @Centre: $1,931.30 per 10-week term. @Work: $3,602.70 per 10-week term. All programs are funded through NDIS, with billing adjusted to match your Plan codes
Can I get progress reports? Yes. Optional weekly or end-of-term reports can be provided to support NDIS reviews, goal tracking, and future planning.
What if I miss a session? We’ll do our best to arrange a make-up session within the term, depending on availability
Where are the programs held? @Home: In your own kitchen. @Centre: Lawson Neighbourhood Centre, Ben’s Café Lawson and Jordan Springs Community Hub (scroll down to bottom of page to see addresses) @Work: Ben’s Café, Lawson
How do I enrol? Simply contact our team to discuss the best option for you: ndis.intake@bmfs.org.au (02) 4759 2811 Or complete the booking form on our website. Our NDIS Manager will be in touch for further information and to confirm your enrolment.
Can I volunteer with Cook + Connect? Yes! Volunteers are an important part of making Cook + Connect possible. You might help in group sessions, assist at Ben’s Café, or support participants in their learning. Training and guidance are provided, so you’ll feel confident in your role. For more information, contact ndis.intake@bmfs.org.au or fill out the enquiry form on our website.
How can I donate to support Cook + Connect? Donations help provide ingredients, resources, and extra support for participants. You can make a one-off or regular donation through our website. Every contribution directly supports the continuation of Cook + Connect programs. For more information, contact ndis.intake@bmfs.org.au or fill out the enquiry form on our website.
I want to thank the team that was working with Charmain because she was enjoying the group and wanted to continue. The support coordinator said that Charmain has tried a number of group programs and has always dropped out after a few sessions due to anxiety. She said she is really impressed with the Cook+Connect group program.
William's participation in the Cook and Connect program has been an amazing way for them to connect as a family and has brought them so much joy. William calls Mum after he finishes to ask if she is hungry and if he can bring her some of what he has made each week. Kathy is delighted to try everything he makes and loves how excited he is to bring them to her
Nel was fantastic, Elvina still hasn’t stopped chatting about her Cook+Connect session @home