Food for Life Get Togethers: Programme Evaluation Summary and Synthesis Final Report

Introduction

This evaluation looks at the Food for Life Get Togethers programme.

It explores how the programme brought people together through food-based community activities like growing, cooking and sharing food. It shows how funding helps local organisations address food insecurity and support their communities.

It’s intended for funders, and voluntary and community sector organisations.

Findings

The research found that food activities can strengthen local organisations and communities, while also meeting immediate needs. It also found that flexible funding helped organisations respond to what matters most in their area.

The research found that:

• food projects helped people access affordable and nutritious food

• activities created trusted spaces that brought people together

• organisations increased their skills, confidence and local partnerships

• volunteers developed new skills and pathways into employment

• food activity helped amplify community voice on local issues

The programme supported both short-term relief and longer-term community development. Strong partnerships and local knowledge were vital to success.