A new “community cookbook” has been published helping families make more nourishing low-cost meals from scratch.

It’s aimed at helping families who either skip or have fewer meals because they can’t afford it, following the findings of a survey by Barking and Dagenham Council.

Food ranked top “pain point” followed by gas and electricity bills, rent or mortgage costs, according to the survey.

So cooking clubs where anyone can learn and share recipes have produced the Come Cook With Us book, with diverse selections of ideas while “culinary newbies” can have a go at cooking for themselves or the family with tips and tricks with each recipe.

“Everyone should have the confidence to cook a wholesome meal from scratch,” deputy council leader Saima Ashraf said. “The cookbook helps you cook and share food from the comfort of your home.”

Come Cook With Us is available at cooking clubs or from public libraries.