Transforming Food, Transforming Lives: Join West Northamptonshire’s Sustainable Food Network
This introduction to the work of WNSFN comes from the network's Project Manager, Matt Passchier. Matt has a varied background including working in catering, and currently at the Hope Centre in Northampton. Addressing the climate impacts of our food systems is a key component of climate action - to find out more or get involved you can contact Matt on hello@goodfoodwnorthants.org.
Imagine a future where everyone can enjoy fresh, locally-grown, nutritious food -food that fuels healthier lives, stronger communities, and a thriving planet. This is the mission of the Sustainable Food Network in West Northamptonshire: to create a food system that’s fair, thriving, and sustainable for all.
A Bold Vision for Change
We believe everyone in West Northants should have access to affordable, nutritious food, no matter their income. Our vision isn’t just about putting food on plates - it’s about empowering communities, improving health, and building a sustainable future.
The pandemic revealed how critical local food systems are for both well-being and resilience. Now, we’re seizing the opportunity to transform how food is grown, shared, and valued in West Northants.
Our network brings together charities, farmers, food-growers, health experts and local businesses, all united by the one belief that good food changes lives.
Powered by a National Movement
As a member of Sustainable Food Places1, a national programme led by Sustain, Food Matters, and the Soil Association, we are taking action to improve food systems from the ground up. Together, we’re making lasting changes that will ripple across generations.
In 2025, we’ll unveil a comprehensive Food Plan and host a Food Summit to showcase progress and galvanize more people to join this transformative movement.
Tackling the Challenges
Our work focuses on seven critical areas to rebuild WN’s food system from the soil to the supper table:
- Food and Eating Well: Making good food a cornerstone of health and well-being.
- Food Insecurity: Ensuring no one goes hungry, with a focus on preventing food poverty.
- Community Food and Growing: Helping people grow their own food and create a vibrant, connected food community.
- Sustainable Food Production: Supporting local farmers and food producers to grow sustainably and thrive.
- Food Economy and Employment: Building a strong, diverse, and sustainable local food economy.
- Catering and Procurement: Driving change in food sourcing, making it local and sustainable.
- Food Waste and Sustainability: Reducing waste, reusing food, and protecting our planet.
Real Change, Real Impact
We’re not just talking about change - we’re making it happen. Together, we’re working to:
- Slash food waste in homes, businesses, and shops.
- Empower communities to grow their own food and share the harvest.
- Give everyone access to fresh, nutritious food.
- Inspire people to cook from scratch, embracing healthier habits.
- Build awareness about sustainable eating, food-growing, and how small actions create big impacts.
Join the Movement
This is more than a network - it’s a revolution in how we think about food. From farm to fork, we’re reconnecting people with what nourishes them, their families, and their communities.
Does this speak to you? Whether you’re a local grower, a passionate advocate for healthy living, or simply someone who believes food should be better for people and the planet, we invite you to join us.
Together, we can create a food system that works for everyone. The future starts here. Reach out to learn more and be part of the change!