Woodlands Community Centre has had the pleasure of partnering with Bay Tree CIC for over seven years, and we can honestly say they are one of the most treasured collaborators in our community work.

Michelle, the incredible chef behind Bay Tree CIC, is a true force of nature. Her cookery sessions are more than just classes they’re experiences that bring people together across generations. From adult classes to energetic kids' workshops, she’s helped our community learn, grow, and bond through food.

During the height of the Covid pandemic, Michelle kept us all connected through Zoom cookery classes and at-home recipe kits, ensuring that isolation didn’t mean disconnection. And her commitment didn’t end there — she’s been by our side at every major celebration, always going the extra mile with her signature flair.

Bay Tree CIC is a highlight of our Annual Family Fun Days. Watching whole families come together to craft fresh, delicious pizzas right from the pizza oven has become a must have tradition everyone enjoys.

Michelle’s Afternoon Teas in the Garden and special event catering (yes, even the Queen’s Jubilee!) have added a memorable sparkle to every occasion.

Our beneficiaries speak with heartfelt praise for Bay Tree CIC. From young children beaming with pride over the lunches they've prepared, to adults discovering new culinary skills and sharing laughter over freshly cooked meals, the experience has been transformative. Together, we’ve explored recipes from around the world, and the simple joy of eating and reminiscing as a community has created memories we’ll cherish for years to come. The verdict is clear — Bay Tree CIC doesn’t just run activities; they create moments that nourish lives and strengthen bonds.

In every way, Bay Tree CIC reflects the values we hold, inclusion, empowerment, and community spirit. We’re proud to work with Michelle and look forward to many more shared experiences ahead.

How long we've worked with Bay Tree CIC
We first worked with Bay Tree back in 2017, in partnership with YMCA Dutch Farm. Michelle came to make pizzas using the fresh produce that people supported by Options had grown over the summer. That was the beginning of a really meaningful partnership.

What we've done together
Since then, Michelle has led accessible cookery groups with people supported by Options, including individuals with learning disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injuries. These sessions are about more than just cooking — they help people learn about healthy food, develop practical skills, and build confidence.

It’s always been special to end a series of workshops by inviting friends and family to share a meal together. Bay Tree also nominated us for the Lord Mayor’s Charity of the Year, which we were incredibly grateful for — it helped raise funds for both us and other groups.

One of the most memorable moments was during the COVID lockdowns. Michelle moved our cooking groups online, creating and delivering ingredient packs to each participant. Despite the challenges, the sessions remained full of joy and connection, even when we couldn’t be together in person.

Another project we worked on together was to create an accessible cookbook. The recipes included QR codes linking to step-by-step videos — it was a fun day filming and, of course, eating all the food with Chef Georgie!

What Options thinks of Bay Tree CIC
We really value our creative partnership with Bay Tree. We share a commitment to inclusion and a vision of a better world for people with disabilities. Michelle’s dedication shows in the way she works with Options and the people we support — she brings care, creativity, and a deep respect for everyone involved.

What people we support think of Bay Tree CIC
The people who attend Bay Tree cookery workshops gain confidence, new skills, and greater independence — something that’s really important for many of the people we support. Their support staff often learn new skills too and get to see a different side of the individuals they work with every day.

Every session brings positive outcomes — from someone discovering a new favourite food, to inviting friends or family round for a home-cooked meal. Bay Tree helps create those moments of pride and connection, and that’s something we truly value.

Website https://optionsempowers.org.uk

We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Bay tree Caterers for their continued generosity and kindness. Your ongoing support means so much to all of us at the Whitechapel centre, and we are especially grateful for the way you always think of us—particularly at Christmas.

Every year, Michelle takes the time to call and make sure we’re included in their community Christmas Day meal. This generous offering is extended to those we support who live on their own, and for many, it is truly a lifeline. The warmth, care, and sense of belonging it brings cannot be overstated.

We deeply appreciate all the hard work Michelle puts in to make this happen, and we are so grateful to work alongside her. Her dedication and compassion make a real and lasting impact. The New Beginnings members who attend have the best time, and look forward to it every year.

Thank you for everything you do. We’re incredibly thankful for your continued support and the difference you make in the lives of those we work with.

We've worked with Bay Tree CIC for over five years and it's been a consistently positive experience. They've supported KFCA delivering a wide range of activities, including community meals, cooking workshops, and catering.

Michelle at Bay Tree CIC brings not only fantastic food but also clear, encouraging facilitation that’s accessible to all ages and abilities. Their approach is inclusive, welcoming, and always full of heart.

Our participants always look forward to Michelle's sessions - they describe them as great fun and the sessions always increase participants' confidence in the kitchen. We can’t recommend Bay Tree CIC highly enough!

How long I've worked with you?

Our Pantry was established 5 years ago
and during this time Michelle has worked with us on a number of occasions.

What sort of thing I've done with your organisation, like cookery classes, fundraising etc.?

Michelle has catered for us occasionally when we've had special events. She has done food demonstrations for our members and provided healthy and low-cost menus for us to print in our newsletters.

What your organisation thinks of bay tree cic?

We can always rely on Michelle and appreciate her support. She is enthusiastic and professional in all she does.

what do your cohort think of Bay tree CIC?

Our members enjoy Michelle's sessions. They look forward to her visits.

We've had the pleasure of working alongside Bay Tree CIC since 2020. Michelle and her team have always been supportive, stepping in when needed and showing a genuine commitment to community-led work.

Bay Tree Catering has provided excellent service at our events, and Michelle regularly engages with our initiatives, offering her presence and encouragement whenever we reach out. Her support helps strengthen the visibility and value of social purpose organisations within our network.

Bay Tree CIC is a purpose-driven organisation, professional, generous, and deeply rooted in community values. We're proud to have their ongoing support.