Kirkby Takes Action Against Obesity with New Community-Created Cookbook

In a powerful community effort, residents of Kirkby in Knowsley have teamed up to create a brand-new cookbook designed to help combat obesity and the health risks it brings, including fatty liver disease.

This initiative brings together nutrition students from Liverpool John Moores University, local community groups, and healthcare professionals from Millbrook Medical Centre in Kirkby, with support from liver specialists at Aintree Hospital.

The Kirkby Kitchen Cookbook features 26 healthy recipes inspired by the Mediterranean diet. These recipes offer healthier versions of family favourites like fish and chips and chicken nuggets, using air fryers and slow cookers for convenience. The aim is to create nutritious meals that are easy to prepare and better for your health.

Cost-effective meal options were a key focus during the creation of the cookbook. All recipes use simple, easy-to-find ingredients, and each dish is fully costed to help families manage their budgets while improving their diet.

The cookbook was compiled by nutrition students Niamh Stevens, Lauren Coles, and Amy Gledhill, who worked closely with community groups like Northwood Mums and Centre 63, as well as patients from Millbrook Medical Centre and Aintree University Hospital. Their collaboration also included input from doctors in primary care, diabetes, liver medicine, and an Association for Nutrition registered nutritionist. Funding was provided by the Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board.

Dr. Katie Lane, Registered Nutritionist and Senior Lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University, commented: “The Mediterranean diet is widely recognized as one of the healthiest in the world. This cookbook is designed to improve the health of Kirkby residents by adapting familiar recipes into Mediterranean-style dishes. Small changes can bring big health benefits, without giving up the foods you love.”

Dr. Theresa Hydes, Liver Doctor and Researcher at the University of Liverpool, added: “Obesity often leads to fatty liver disease, which increases the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure. The good news is that fatty liver disease is reversible. A Mediterranean-inspired diet, rich in vegetables, pulses, lentils, fish, and white meat—while cutting back on saturated fats, sugar, sugary drinks, and processed foods—can improve health immediately and in the long term.”

Cllr Christine Bannon, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, praised the project: “This initiative is a fantastic step toward improving the health and wellbeing of Kirkby residents. The collaboration with Liverpool John Moores University students has allowed us to better understand the challenges people face when trying to improve their diet. The cookbook and accompanying resources, including instructional videos, empower people to take charge of their health through food.”

The Kirkby Kitchen Cookbook is available for free download online at www.kirkbykitchen.co.uk