Ambitious action plan tackles food poverty in Stoke-on-Trent

Children supported by the Youth Offending Service will work with groups providing emergency food in Stoke-on-Trent as part of their rehabilitation.

Under the proposals, the Youth Offending Team will be asked to include volunteering with emergency food providers as part of their victim-led offer, subject to the agreement of the providers. 

It’s one of a raft of proposals drawn up by the city council in response to a report into food poverty and insecurity in the city.  

The Food Network is a long-term programme of work to build an equitable, resilient and sustainable food network across the city - and closer work with headteachers and governors will promote healthy eating in schools and signpost those struggling to resources that can help. 

The city council will also look at funding options to develop community garden projects – helping communities to grow their own food. 

And work is ongoing to connect residents to low-and no-cost food options for those struggling to feed themselves and their families. 

Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for children’s services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Our Youth Offending Service is incredibly successful at reducing offending rates. This work will not only support rehabilitation of youth offenders but tackle inequalities and improve life chances for anyone struggling across the city.” 

The package is intended to tackle the causes as well as the symptoms of food poverty, by boosting resilience and working in partnership.  

It builds on previous work to help residents with the cost of living, including the launch of The Food Partnership with YMCA North Staffordshire and VAST. Council partner The Hubb Foundation recently distributed its millionth meal over summer, while The Bread and Butter Thing has offered affordable food from the council’s Family Hubs.    

Councillor Sarah Jane Colclough, cabinet member for education and anti-poverty at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Everyone in the city should have access to affordable, healthy food.  We’re bringing together a wide range of support for anyone who is struggling as well as working hard to make sure everyone in the city is claiming the benefits they are entitled to.  

“If you’re struggling with the cost of living, help is at hand. I urge anyone struggling to reach out. We want to help communities to come together to support each other.”