What does good look like?

On this page, are case study examples of where Food Policy Councils or Local Food Partnerships are demonstrating what “good” might look like. The while case study examples may or may not have explicitly mentioned the food ladders in their documentation, an analysis or how they are approaching their local places illustrates the foodladders framework.

If you would like to have your local place included on this list please email: m.blake@Sheffield.ac.uk

Case study 1: How the Bristol Food Policy Council is implementing the Food Ladders

The Bristol Food Policy Council applies the food ladders framework by linking immediate food aid, capacity-building activities, and community-driven change, creating a holistic and inclusive approach to food security in the city and to create a resilient, fair, and sustainable local food system.

Rung 1. CatchingBFPC supports emergency food provision, such as food banks and food redistribution (e.g., partnerships with FareShare South West), ensuring immediate food access for those in crisis.

It coordinates with city partners to respond to rising food inequalities, especially during periods of increased need.
Rung 2. Capacity buildingThe council champions community food growing projects, nutrition education, and skills training. For example, it has funded the distribution of thousands of vegetable plants to community groups to boost local food production and self-reliance.

Initiatives like the Bristol Eating Better Award encourage local food businesses to improve nutrition and sustainability, building a healthier food environment for all residents.
Rung 3: Self-organisingThe council champions community food growing projects, nutrition education, and skills training. For example, it has funded distributing thousands of vegetable plants to community groups to boost local food production and self-reliance.

Initiatives like the Bristol Eating Better Award encourage local food businesses to improve nutrition and sustainability, building a healthier food environment for all residents.
Coordination and systems changeBFPC acts as a connector, bringing together city council departments, public health, local businesses, and grassroots organisations to align efforts across all rungs of the food ladder.

It’s Good Food Plan and subsequent strategies provide a transparent framework for monitoring progress, sharing best practices, and inspiring collective action across Bristol.

The council’s approach ensures that emergency support, skills development, and community empowerment are all integrated, allowing people to move up the food ladder toward lasting food security and resilience.