THE MANCHESTER VISION: Everyone in Manchester has a right to good food. No one should have this right denied because of where they live, their income, or their background.
Manchester City Council's Joint Health Unit has been working on a citywide food strategy based on the above vision. The document, currently in draft form, acknowledges the physical, mental, social and economic benefits of a healthy diet both for individuals and for the city as a whole. The proposals for change address the whole food system, from the way food is farmed, through to the moment it reaches our plates, and beyond to the disposal of food related waste.
This vision of food security for all residents of Manchester , centres its aims around local food production and distribution methods which would strengthen the local economy, protect the environment, encourage dietary diversity and lead to stronger and more sustainable communities. Local people would have the opportunity not only to access a healthy and safe diet, but also to become fully involved in its production.
The strategy sets out proposals for an increase in the amount of food grown within the city, based on organic methods and involving local people. Community supported agriculture, local agriculture businesses, and community food growing schemes would all be encouraged. The resulting shorter distribution chains would minimise the necessity for transportation by road, as would schemes which bring food directly to communities. Delivery services, food co-ops and local shops and markets would ensure easy access for all, boost the local economy and provide a community focus. Eating out is also addressed, the aim being to encourage a diverse range of eating outlets in all areas of the city which would help to foster cross-cultural understanding and increase community cohesion.
Education around what constitutes a healthy diet is also proposed, along with support to achieve it such as teaching cooking skills. The resulting awareness will further increase demand for unadulterated foods, leading to minimal processing and reduction of unnessary additives, salt and sugar. Food then would be enjoyed in a fresh, natural state, minimising the risk of food scares and leading to a reduction in the incidence of dietary-related diseases.
This strategy, if implemented, will clearly have direct effects on the health of Manchester residents, on the local environment, and on increased and improved local employment opportunities. However, besides having multiple benefits for Manchester , it also has the potential to create a ripple effect to a much wider community, by helping to raise awareness of the global impact of patterns of consumption and will provide an example to other cities to follow suit. The success of the strategy locally will depend on the ability of of organisations and individuals from all sectors and communities to work in partnership, and MERCi looks forward to continuing our own work on sustainable food systems with the support of such a network.
For more information contact Colin Cox, Assistant Director of the Joint Health Unit at: c.cox@notes.manchester.gov.uk