Launch of new community partnership gives Wigan borough food for thought

A new borough-wide initiative is aiming to make healthy food cheaper and easier to buy in Wigan borough.

Organisations and leaders from across the community were at The Edge near Wigan Pier this week for the launch of the brand-new Wigan Borough Food Partnership.

Pulling together expertise from the council, health services, local businesses, education, community groups, and the environmental and food sectors, the partnership has also made it its mission to reduce food waste and make the borough’s food supply more self-sufficient.

Coun Keith Cunliffe, Wigan Council’s deputy leader and cabinet portfolio holder for adult social care and health, said: “We make lots of choices that affect our health, but we all need food – and the food we eat impacts not just our own health and wellbeing, but our economy, our environment and so much more.”

“By working together, we can make Wigan Borough’s food system stronger and more resilient, and create a healthier and fairer future for all our residents.”

As part of a UK-wide Sustainable Food Places network, the borough aims to champion healthy, locally-produced food while increasing food security against global shocks and the rising cost of living.

The wider community will also be able to influence the work of the Wigan Borough Food Partnership, with plans already being made for a series of roadshow events across the borough next year.

Residents and organisations will have the opportunity to share their views and experiences, and discover how they can play a part in making the borough’s food system healthier and more self-sufficient.