Decision details

To outline the outcome of the spotlight review and approve/comment on any associated recommendations.

The committee received a report which explored the issues of food poverty and insecurity in Cheshire East following the Spotlight Review which took place on the 30^th June 2022. The Spotlight Review followed the Notice of Motion submitted to Full Council on the 22 June 2021 that the ‘Right to Food’ be incorporated in to the ‘National Food Strategy’. Following the referral of the Notice of Motion to Adults and Health Committee it was agreed that the Council “should develop its own Right to Food Strategy that meets local anticipated need over the next 4 years which aligns to the Corporate Plan; to include a spotlight review to develop the strategy”. The report outlined the findings from key research along with evidence from the Spotlight Review and the recommended actions to move forward.

The committee welcomed the report and Councillor Critchley was thanked for bringing the motion to Council.

RESOLVED: (Unanimously) That the Adults and Health Committee:-

Acknowledge and approve the Five [5] key strategic recommendations which have been made. [Appendix 1] Right to Food Event – Spotlight Review Report by ICE Creates for Cheshire East Council July 2022.

1.    Establish a working group and co-create a ‘Right to Food’ strategy with service users.

2.    Establish a referral pathway and process. Providing residents with long-term support to reduce the dependence on food banks.

3.    Utilise and upskill a volunteer workforce to advise, signpost and make referrals.

4.    In collaboration with the Food Network, provide a social space for information sharing.

5.    Collaborate with producers and manufacturers to support a food surplus model of food procurement.