The funding will bolster the council's efforts to increase food accessibility, aiming to enhance resident wellbeing and decrease dependency on food banks. This initiative builds upon the established Feeding Ashfield Network, formed in 2021 with the goal of promoting ‘healthy, happy lives for all who live in Ashfield’.
The network unites food banks, health and education providers, and community organisations, fostering collaboration to share expertise, resources, and support. Through joint efforts, members have strengthened connections between food hubs and essential services like energy advice, mental health support, and financial assistance. They have also supported community growing projects in schools and neighbourhoods, creating inclusive spaces for those seeking help.
The Feeding Ashfield Network also contributes to the Nottinghamshire Sustainable Food and Feeding Britain networks and has developed a 10-year Action Plan. The new funding will accelerate the delivery of this plan and welcome new partners who share the vision for healthy, affordable food across Ashfield.
Cllr Chris Huskinson, the council’s Executive Lead for Leisure, Health and Wellbeing, expressed his pleasure: “We are pleased to have been awarded this grant to support those who need it most in Ashfield. We know that access to healthy food can be difficult for some people and we want to change that, helping more of our residents enjoy delicious and affordable meals. Supporting residents to live healthier and happier lives is a top priority for us as a council. We strongly believe that everyone should have access to good food and be given the support they need to make healthy family meals that don’t break the bank.”
The grant is allocated to 45 local authorities facing significant deprivation and childhood obesity. National figures indicate that nine percent of the population experienced food insecurity in 2024/25, with children in the most deprived areas being disproportionately affected by obesity and related health inequalities.
Government’s Environment Secretary Angela Eagle stated: "Ashfield is doing excellent work to help more families gain access to healthy and affordable food, and this new government funding will build on those foundations. Together we can break the cycle of food insecurity, bringing fresh, affordable produce into neighbourhoods."
Find out more about the Feeding Ashfield Action plan by following this link: Ashfield's Be Health Be Happy Action Plan
