WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT FOOD

Today, Hyndburn’s Food Solutions Network is launching a community conversation about food and inviting all Hyndburn residents to take part. We want your ideas on how we can ensure everyone in our borough has access to the food they need to thrive. Share your thoughts by completing a short survey at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/hyndburn-food

Food is essential to life, but in Hyndburn, access isn’t equal. In Hyndburn, a staggering 25% of people face moderate or severe food insecurity, and over 75% of adults are classified as overweight or obese – far above the national average. Foodbanks have become a regular lifeline, and certain areas are considered ‘food deserts’ or ‘food swamps’ where fast-food outlets outnumber healthier options.

This conversation is about finding out what truly matters to Hyndburn residents when it comes to food. Is it ensuring everyone has affordable, nutritious choices? Tackling the impact of our food environment on health? Or creating a more sustainable food system that supports local producers? Your voice can help shape the future of food in our community.

Beccy Murrell, Operations Manager at Maundy Relief, says: “We urge every Hyndburn resident to have their say by completing this survey. Together, we can build a better food system and empower communities to find sustainable solutions for accessing good food. This might mean setting up social supermarkets, community food clubs, or expanding opportunities to learn food-growing and cooking skills.

The “We Need To Talk About Food” conversation will run for four weeks from 18 November 2024 and can be accessed at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/hyndburn-food.

Paper copies are available from Hyndburn Leisure, located at 395 Accrington Academy, Queens Road West, Accrington, BB5 4FF.