UK Council Areas Receive Funding to Boost Healthy Food Access Amid Deprivation Concerns

Local authorities in Hull and Lincolnshire are among 45 in England set to receive £222,000 each from the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to improve access to healthy and affordable food. The funding targets areas identified with high levels of deprivation and childhood obesity.

Councillor Mike Ross, leader of Hull City Council, highlighted the significant challenges residents face in obtaining necessary healthy food. "Anything that helps tackle those barriers is really important," he stated. The allocated "Good Food Neighbourhoods" funding can support initiatives such as community food shops and mobile greengrocers, and enhance local authorities' capacity to plan for and meet food needs.

Data from the National Child Measurement Programme for the 2024/25 school year indicates that 10.2% of children in reception year (ages 4-5) in Hull had an obesity status, with this figure rising to 19% for Year 6 pupils (ages 10-11). These rates are above the national average.

Ross emphasized the severe need within the city, adding that the funding will build upon existing efforts and foster collaboration with local communities. "Wanting to work with not just the council but with local communities and groups across the city to make sure everything is done to support local residents," he said.

Darren Squires of the Hull Food Partnership explained that barriers to accessing food extend beyond low income, encompassing factors like geographical distance from supermarkets, lack of personal transport, and time constraints for those working multiple jobs. "For some people it's not about income. People can be financially secure, but still time poor," Squires noted. He added that in some parts of the city, obtaining a takeaway meal is easier than finding ingredients for home cooking.

Other local authorities receiving the funding include North East Lincolnshire Council, North Lincolnshire Council, City of Lincoln Council, and South Holland District Council. Councillor Nige Oliver, portfolio holder for health, wellbeing, and adult social care at North East Lincolnshire Council, welcomed the announcement, stating, "Families in areas like ours can face significant challenges in trying to access affordable, healthy food. We're now looking at how we can use this funding to support people in our area."

Further details regarding the allocation and use of this funding are expected to be provided to local authorities in a government meeting next week.