Issue - meetings

Background:

This report requested Cabinet approval of the Medway Food Strategy. The report set out that the Strategy supported sustainability by promoting local food production, reducing food waste, encouraging sustainable farming practices, and ensuring equitable access to healthy, environmentally friendly food options, all of which contributed to long-term environmental and community well-being.

Implementation of the Strategy would bolster Medway's recognition as a Bronze Sustainable Food award recipient, making it one of only ten local authorities in the UK to achieve this award in 2024.

Officers were thanked for their enthusiasm in the development of the Strategy and the hosting of events across Medway. Joint working across Council teams was acknowledged, including the work of the Climate Response team, Environmental Engagement, Business Development and Adult Education.

The report had previously been considered by the Health and Wellbeing Board on 21 November 2024 and by the Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee on 5 December 2024, the minutes of which were set out in sections 8 and 9 of the report.

A Diversity Impact Assessment had been undertaken on the Strategy, as set out in Appendix 2 to the report.

Reasons:

Approval of the Food Strategy helps to create an environment that supports sustainable access to affordable healthy food.