A representative from Worthing West has called for intensified efforts to address food insecurity across West Sussex.
Martin McCabe formally questioned the cabinet member responsible for public health and wellbeing regarding collaborative measures between the county council, educational institutions, local authorities, and charitable groups to ensure vulnerable households can obtain nourishing food while simultaneously cutting down on waste.
In his submission, McCabe emphasised that residents should not face the dilemma of choosing between purchasing healthy ingredients and meeting other essential expenses.
He pointed to the county’s agricultural sector, manufacturing businesses, commercial enterprises, and grassroots initiatives as resources that should be better utilised to prevent families from going without adequate sustenance while edible products continue to be discarded unnecessarily.
The councillor advocated for a combined approach to food poverty and waste reduction, arguing that surplus provisions ought to be redirected toward those experiencing need.
His remarks coincided with preparations for World Food Day, scheduled for October 16.
The international observance, coordinated by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, draws attention to universal access to safe, nutritious, and reasonably priced food.
This year’s campaign carries the theme Innovate today.
Nourish tomorrow, promoting collaborative action among governmental bodies, local communities, and charitable entities to develop more equitable and environmentally sound food networks.
The West Sussex Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy for 2025 to 2030 identifies food and nutrition as one of five key focus areas, with a commitment to broadening availability of affordable, healthy provisions.
September also witnessed widened criteria for complimentary school meals, offering a chance to nourish a greater number of young people during instructional hours.
McCabe highlighted the substantial impact that complimentary school meals can have on young people and their households, noting that proper nourishment contributes to physical wellbeing, mental focus, and academic performance.
He stressed, however, that obligations extend beyond educational premises, requiring coordinated cooperation between the county council, schools, neighbouring authorities, emergency food providers, community associations, retailers, and regional producers.
World Food Day presents a chance to acknowledge the dedication of volunteers and grassroots organisations while continuing to explore additional measures to prevent anyone within local communities experiencing hunger.