Sheffield’s food future has just received a fresh new ingredient, one that promises to nourish communities throughout the city. ShefFood has officially launched the latest update to the Sheffield Local Food Action Plan, a vibrant initiative first published in 2023. This isn’t simply a stand-alone document; it’s a living, breathing commitment to creating a fairer, healthier, and more sustainable food system for all.
When the Local Food Action Plan was first introduced, nearly 100 organisations contributed to shaping its vision. However, a city’s food system is as diverse as the people who live in it, and ShefFood knew that the plan needed to continue evolving. Over the past year, alongside the FixOurFood research programme, they’ve been listening to new voices, learning from underrepresented communities, and making sure that no one is left out of the conversation—or the dinner table.
This update brings new partnerships, deeper commitments, and eight brand-new actions designed to address the most pressing food issues in Sheffield. From tackling food poverty to ensuring culturally appropriate food is accessible to all, this plan is more than a list of goals—it’s a recipe for meaningful change.
Among the new partners shaping Sheffield’s food landscape is The Hadfield Institute, a cornerstone of the city’s Yemeni community. Dedicated to supporting families facing food insecurity, the institute provides essential food parcels to over 150 families every week. Their work extends beyond food distribution; they foster cultural connections and provide a vital support network for Sheffield’s Yemeni residents, ensuring access to not only meals but also a sense of belonging and stability.
The BAMER 5 is a coalition of five leading Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic, and Refugee organisations addressing food inequality and social inclusion. Members include Fir Vale Community Forum for marginalised communities in North Sheffield; ISRAAC Somali Community Association for culturally appropriate food aid; SACMHA Health and Social Care for holistic services to African and Caribbean communities; and Aspiring Communities Together (ACT) Sheffield for economic and social empowerment communities.
United Women Affiliation is another crucial force in this effort. The organisation plays a vital role in advocating for and enabling access to essential social support services, with a particular focus on empowering Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) women. Their work goes beyond food provision, ensuring that women in Sheffield’s diverse communities have the resources and support they need to overcome employment, health, and social inclusion challenges.
Dryden Food Pantry is making an incredible impact by addressing food insecurity among children and young people. Every week, they provide nutritious meals to over 150 young people, ensuring they have access to the sustenance needed to grow, learn, and thrive. By working with schools, youth organisations, and community groups, Dryden Food Pantry is making sure that no child in Sheffield goes hungry.
Southey and Owlerton Area Regeneration (SOAR) is taking a holistic approach to improving the well-being of people in North Sheffield. Using community-driven development strategies, SOAR works to enhance the health, economic stability, and social inclusion of residents. Through food initiatives, skills training, and local partnerships, they empower individuals and families, creating long-term solutions that strengthen the fabric of the community.
What does this mean for the people of Sheffield? It signifies stronger food networks where local organisations can share skills, resources, and knowledge. It indicates policies that not only discuss inclusivity but also actively implement it. It supports local businesses, encourages more food production within the community, and ensures that health and sustainability are central to every meal served.
One of the standout additions to the plan emphasises strengthening food growing education. Across Sheffield, new initiatives will allow children, young people, and adults to get their hands in the soil, learn how to cultivate their own food and reconnect with nature. There is also a renewed effort to equip frontline health and social care workers with the knowledge required to support people’s nutritional needs in a way that respects their culture, finances, and personal choices and circumstances.
Sheffield’s food movement has always been about collaboration, and this latest update cements that ethos even further. By working together with grassroots organisations, community groups, and policy-makers, ShefFood is ensuring that the Local Food Action Plan doesn’t just sit on a shelf—it transforms lives.
So, what can you do to help? First, take a look at the updated plan on the ShefFood website. It’s packed with exciting, community-driven solutions that will shape Sheffield’s food future. You can read it on the ShefFood Strategy & Research page (sheffood.org.uk/strategy-research)
Second, consider joining one of ShefFood’s working groups. Whether your passion is food growing, community food provision, or making food businesses more sustainable, there’s a place for you at the table. Visit our events page (sheffood.org.uk/events) to learn about the next event. In March, we’ve got meetings in our Growing & Composting working group meeting and a Good Food Economy event celebrating the launch of a recent food mapping project for the city.
The Sheffield Local Food Action Plan is more than just words on a page—it’s a city-wide effort to make food fairer, healthier, and more accessible for everyone. And with this latest update, it’s clearer than ever that when Sheffield works together, the future of food looks deliciously bright.
To learn more or to get involved, please contact ShefFood’s Partnership Coordination Team at [email protected] or visit sheffood.org.uk.
