Lewisham shows leadership in tackling food inequality
Lewisham is showing leadership across several fronts in the fight against food inequality, according to the recently published Good Food Local: London Report.
Coordinated by Sustain and supported by the Mayor of London, the report tracks action on the most pressing food issues, working with councils to make healthier, sustainable and affordable food more accessible to all.
Lewisham is deemed to be ‘showing leadership’ in several areas, including:
- food governance and strategy
- community food growing
- community food action
- sustainable food economy
- food poverty alliances
- food poverty action plans
- Healthy Start uptake
- holiday activities and food
- ethnic and cultural diversity
The report praised Lewisham specifically for its work on food governance and strategy, highlighting the fact that the borough received a Silver Sustainable Food Places Award in July last year. Indeed, Lewisham is one of only four areas nationally that won the Silver Award in 2024 and is one of only three London boroughs to receive the award.
Cllr Paul Bell, Lewisham Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: "Food is a basic human right, and I am so proud of the progress Lewisham has made in reducing food inequality.
“Our local food partnership, Good Food Lewisham, and Lewisham’s Food Justice Action Plan have been instrumental in driving this change, inspiring communities and setting an example to others.
“However, we also recognise that there is still work to be done and won’t stop until every Lewisham resident has access to healthy, sustainable and affordable food.”
Catherine Mbema, Lewisham Council's Director of Public Health, added: "Addressing food inequality is crucial for the overall health and wellbeing of our residents, so I am so pleased Lewisham has been recognised in the Good Food Local London Report.
“By ensuring equitable access to nutritious food, we are not only improving physical and mental health but also fostering a sense of community and resilience. Our commitment to food justice is just one of the many ways we are working with local partners to create a healthier and more inclusive borough for all."
Lewisham has also been praised for its diverse food partnership. Good Food Lewisham is made up of a wide range of individuals, from nutritionists to academics to foragers to food aid groups – as well as interested residents. Equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) is a standing item on the steering group meeting agenda, and the partnership collects demographic data on event attendance to review how reflective the meetings were of the local community and to inform future topics and changes as needed.
Lewisham launched its Food Justice Action Plan in 2023, bringing together an alliance of local partners committed to addressing food injustice in the borough. Sustain has recognised the plan as an example of good practice, and it has led to several tangible outcomes, including the award of nearly £90,000 to support various community food projects.
Visit Lewisham Council’s Food Justice webpage to find out more about what is happening in the borough to reduce food inequality.