On November 13, ShefFood, Sheffield’s citywide food partnership, joined representatives from over 110 food partnerships across the UK for the Sustainable Food Places (SFP) Day of Celebration and Action in Westminster. Hosted in the historic Attlee Suite of Portcullis House, the event brought together food activists, community organisers, and parliamentarians to celebrate strides toward a more sustainable, fair, and equitable food system.
For ShefFood’s Partnership Coordinator, Nell Attwood, said it was an inspiring and impactful experience. “Being part of a wider network is amazing,It’s powerful to recognise all of our hard work and see how we’re collectively creating systems change across the country.” This unity among food partnerships emphasises a vital cross-sector approach, where individuals and organisations work together to address pressing food-related challenges.
Since its founding, ShefFood has been part of a nationwide movement pushing for fairer, healthier and greener local food systems. With an aim to address food insecurity, promote local food economies, and improve community well-being, ShefFood collaborates across sectors—from local government and businesses to community groups and residents—to make Sheffield a leader in sustainable food practices.
The event in Westminster was also an opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of local food partnerships across the UK, with praise explicitly directed toward Sheffield’s Local Food Action Plan (LFAP). ShefFood’s LFAP received admiration from partnerships in other cities, affirming Sheffield’s influential role in setting ambitious, achievable goals for local food resilience. Nell noted that many attendees were interested in learning more about Sheffield’s LFAP and expressed intentions to connect with ShefFood for further inspiration.
The day was punctuated by speeches from key supporters, including Emma Lewell-Buck, MP for South Shields, who sponsored the event. Lewell-Buck, known for her dedication to food justice, addressed the room with gratitude and encouragement. “She called us Sustainable Food Champions,” Nell recalled, “and her enthusiasm was contagious. It reminded us how our local efforts are part of a larger movement, with parliamentarians like her advocating for food justice at a national level.”
Lewell-Buck highlighted her 11 years of food justice work and pledged ongoing support for Sustainable Food Places, receiving applause and cheers from the audience. The event attracted approximately 50 MPs, including Jeremy Corbyn, demonstrating broad political support for the network’s goals.
A panel discussion addressed vital topics like dignified food provision, food access for refugees, and the barriers many communities face in accessing sustainable and ethically sourced food. This dialogue sheds light on food’s role in bridging social divides and celebrating cultural diversity. Attendees learned about efforts from Aberdeenshire to provide food with dignity to refugees, and ShefFood is now considering ways to apply similar practices in Sheffield.
Networking was a cornerstone of the event, with food partnerships from diverse regions exchanging ideas and strategies. Nell found herself seated with representatives from Cornwall, Devon, and Somerset, as well as the Yorkshire Food partnerships (York, Leeds, Hull & North Lincolnshire) allowing for a lively discussion about regional challenges and opportunities. This gathering underscored the importance of regional collaborations, especially for Yorkshire’s food, who discussed future plans to work more closely together.
The gathering at Westminster highlighted how food partnerships serve as pillars in the Sustainable Food Places Network, which now boasts 114 partnerships across the UK. By working together, these groups foster meaningful change through initiatives like local food action plans, advocacy for food sovereignty, and community-led food systems.
This collaborative approach was central to discussions during the panel, where speakers emphasised the importance of co-production—working with communities to design solutions that reflect their specific needs and experiences. Issues like access to land for growing food, the value of fruit-picking initiatives, and the importance of dignified, community-driven food provision were key focal points.
Lunch in St. James’s Park allowed for even more informal conversations, with attendees sharing their experiences and envisioning new ways to improve food access and sustainability. For Nell, the takeaway from this day was clear: Sheffield is not alone in its quest for a fairer food system, and there is power in being part of a nationwide network where knowledge, resources, and inspiration are shared.
ShefFood’s work to make Sheffield a leader in sustainable food practices continues to gain recognition. By participating in the SFP Day of Celebration and Action, ShefFood is bringing back fresh ideas and partnerships to help Sheffield address food insecurity, promote local food producers, and support resilient food practices that meet the city’s needs.
Reflecting on the event, Nell noted, “We have so many new connections now, and knowing we can reach out to other cities for advice and inspiration is incredibly empowering. There’s constant admiration and learning within the network.”
As Sheffield continues to implement its Local Food Action Plan, the partnerships and insights gained from the SFP network will play a key role in shaping a healthier, more sustainable future for the city. With the support of local communities and leaders’ commitment across the UK, ShefFood is poised to make significant strides in transforming Sheffield’s food system.
To learn more or get involved with ShefFood’s initiatives, community members are encouraged to reach out to the organisation and contribute to making Sheffield a model for sustainable, equitable food practices. Contact the team at [email protected] or visit the website; sheffood.org.uk.