TWO catering staff from the Scottish Borders have been named Food for Life Scotland Ambassadors for their work to promote healthy, sustainable and locally sourced food in local schools
Elspeth Lean, Food and Nutrition Co-ordinator and Janette Lothian, Catering Coordinator from Scottish Borders Council were part of a selected group of catering staff from across Scotland that gathered at an event in Edinburgh on May 10 2022 to receive their awards.
The pair are working with Stow Primary School on their grow garden and hope to develop links with local businesses and farmers so that pupils can witness first-hand the journey from field to fork.
Pupils will develop an understanding of seasonal produce and what can be grown in Scotland, plus how great fresh produce tastes.
The aim of the Food for Life Scotland Ambassadors programme is to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of the revolution that’s going on behind the scenes in school meals.
After taking part in a number of workshops, the ambassadors have created and set out on their own individual action plans within their local authority, from growing projects to cooking clubs for parents to a student council that selects a monthly seasonal recipe for their school's menu.
These projects are now underway, and the ambassadors will continue to champion good food in their communities.
The ambassador programme was set up by Food for Life Scotland (FFLS), run by Soil Association Scotland and funded by Scottish Government.
FFLS supports local authorities to serve school meals that are good for pupil’s health, good for the environment and good for the local community.
Sarah Duley, Head of Food, Food for Life Scotland, said: “As communities across Scotland continue to grapple with uncertainties, from climate change and the impact of the pandemic, to supply chain disruptions and the increased cost of living, the need to improve access to food that’s nutritious and freshly prepared, at the same time as being sustainably and locally produced, has never been more important.
“Our Food for Life Scotland Ambassadors put their all into providing the best possible meals for Scotland’s young people every single day. We hope that we can shine a spotlight on the actions of these individuals to show what’s possible in school meals and inspire others to join in the mission of creating a ‘Good Food Nation’ in Scotland.”
Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “I would like to congratulate the newly awarded Food for Life Scotland Ambassadors who have been selected as a result of their commendable work within their schools, communities and local authorities.
“It’s great to see their achievements being recognised as we celebrate them as changemakers within our local communities.
“The Food for Life Scotland programme is continuing to make a big difference to the lives of many young people across the country. This wouldn’t have been achieved without the tireless efforts of our catering teams across the length and breadth of the country.
“With 26 million ‘Food for Life Served Here’ meals being served across Scotland every year, the positive impact is evident and the movement is no doubt set to grow further.”
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