We are delighted to be able to offer organisations the chance to bid for a contract to support the vision, priorities and approach to the development of a Good Food Economy Plan in Barking & Dagenham. We are looking for an expert individual or organisation to help us with this piece of research, the purpose of which is to:

1. Understand the diversity of local food culture and knowledge, and perspectives on food-related challenges among different communities;
2. Map the existing initiatives, resources and opportunities that we can work with to build a healthier, more affordable, more sustainable local food system;
3. Explore what we can learn from wider evidence, good practice standards and place-based approaches to building healthier, more affordable, more sustainable local food systems;
4. Involve community stakeholders and resident groups engaged in food issues in decisions about the vision, goals and activities of a Good Food Economy Plan in Barking and Dagenham.

We are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in Barking & Dagenham, and this research will form part of the realisation of the council's wider ambition to reduce unemployment, inactivity and low pay, and tackle the related high levels of food insecurity and obesity in the borough. It will help inform a programme of work to ensure the proposed re-location of London's historic wholesale food markets to the borough deliver wider economic and social benefits for local residents.

If you would like more information about this opportunity, please contact Tess Lanning, Head of Enterprise and Employment Strategy, via email to: tess.lanning@lbbd.gov.uk