A new scheme announced by the Government today (Wednesday 30 September) will see £222,000 on its way to Peterborough to improve access to affordable and healthy food.
The funding is from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ Good Food Neighbourhoods programme, which is supporting 45 local authorities including Peterborough City Council to develop community-led food projects tailored to local needs.
The aim is to reduce reliance on emergency food support over time by helping communities develop long-term solutions that improve health, reduce inequality and build local confidence.
The council will now be working with residents, voluntary and community organisations, faith groups, cultural networks and local partners to design practical support that reflects the needs of Peterborough’s diverse communities.
Potential projects could include community food spaces, food hubs, practical cooking sessions, nutrition advice, support for meal planning and targeted outreach in neighbourhoods where residents may find it harder to access affordable healthy food.
The programme is designed to move beyond short-term crisis support by helping people build confidence with shopping, meal planning and cooking, while also improving access to nutritious food for families and individuals.
Councillor Ann Shaheed, Cabinet Member for Public Health, Homelessness and Poverty for Peterborough City Council, said: “This funding will help us work directly with communities to develop practical, local solutions that make it easier for residents to cook healthy, affordable food.
“Peterborough is a proud and diverse city, and we know that food habits, cooking traditions and nutritional needs are different across our communities. That is why this programme will be shaped with residents and local partners, so support is practical, culturally relevant and focused on the people who can benefit most.
“By supporting people with food skills, nutrition education and community-led approaches, we want to help residents prepare nutritious meals on a budget, strengthen local food resilience and bring communities together.”
Councillor Shabina Qayyum, Leader of Peterborough City Council, said: "Being chosen as one of a small number of places nationally to receive this funding is a vote of confidence in Peterborough and our communities. We are committed to ensuring local people help shape the programme so that it reflects the diversity, strengths and aspirations of our city."