Local Food Procurement Boosts Opportunities for Communities

In a move to strengthen local food systems and bolster community resilience, a selection of local authorities across England have been awarded £155,000 each to improve their food procurement practices. This initiative aims to provide greater opportunities for pupils, patients, and public sector workers to access high-quality, locally sourced food.

The funding, provided by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), will enable these local authorities to explore innovative ways to increase their use of locally produced food in schools, hospitals, and other public services. By doing so, they hope to support local farmers, food producers, and suppliers, while also delivering healthier and more sustainable meals to their communities.

According to Defra, the selected local authorities will be able to share best practices and lessons learned with other councils, fostering a collaborative approach to transforming food procurement across the country. This initiative is part of the government's broader efforts to build a more resilient, sustainable, and locally-focused food system.