Food access for people seeking asylum in London and local action

In October 2023, Sustain launched a new project funded by Trust for London and in partnership with frontline organisations Jesuit Refugee Service UK and Life Seekers Aid to explore food experiences of people seeking asylum in London. The research included carrying out focus groups with participants with lived experience, interviews with frontline staff and local authorities, and developing case studies of good practice from councils and the voluntary and community sector.

There are serious concerns across London about inadequate food and nutrition access, and a lack of positive food experiences for people seeking asylum. Decisions on asylum status often take several years, leaving people, particularly infants and children, at risk of malnutrition and driving physical and mental health issues.

The webinar will communicate findings from the research, identify key areas where national policy change is necessary and highlight guidance and recommendations on local action for councils.

Programme:

• Introduction to project - Sofia Parente, Sustain.
• Findings - Dr Sophie Cartwright, Jesuit Refugee Service UK and Kenan Albeirakdar, Life Seekers Aid.
• Key areas for local action, and recommendations - Isabel Rice, Sustain.
• Case study of local action good practice - Matt Bury, Newham Council.
• Q and A.

Watch the recording of the webinar below: