Cherwell District Council is taking steps to reduce food poverty and improve residents’ health.

The council's executive has approved the Food Action Plan, a strategy drawn up by Good Food Oxfordshire and various Cherwell-based organisations.

It commits the council and its partners to growing the food economy locally, shortening supply chains, and improving the quality of meals at facilities like schools, nurseries, and nursing homes.

The scheme includes support for eco-friendly farming and local efforts to grow and distribute food.

Councillor Phil Chapman, portfolio holder for healthy and safe communities, said: "The cost of living crisis has had an impact on many of our residents’ food shops, and this important food action plan is a real sign of our commitment to help.

"The plan looks at the food system as a whole in Cherwell district and aims to make it more environmentally friendly, more locally driven, and more able to meet future challenges."

£25,000 of grant funds will be allocated to support the action plan, with the Oxfordshire County Council providing the financial backing.

The Food Action Plan was devised using constructive collaboration and consultation events facilitated by Good Food Oxfordshire, and workshops engaging key district influencers.

The plan is intended to build on a strategy approved by the council in May 2021 and will be implemented over the next three years.