A delegation from South Korea made a special visit to Croydon to learn more about the borough’s Food Flagship programme which supports residents to be healthier.
The Seoul Food Committee is made up of representatives from the Seoul Metropolitan Government, Food Council and Ministry of Agriculture. They came to London to further develop their own country’s food strategy by finding out what the capital’s policy makers are also doing in this area of work.
Their trip to Croydon was arranged through the Greater London Authority, which recommended the council’s Food Flagship programme as an example of good practice for working with communities to improve their health and wellbeing.
They heard about the work being done to reduce food poverty in the borough as well as learning more about the council’s collaboration with celebrity chef Jamie Oliver’s Sugar Smart campaign. The Seoul committee was also interested in the successful Healthy Schools programme supporting children to make healthy food choices and be more active. In addition, they were given information about the website for residents at www.JustBeCroydon.org that offers advice to prevent weight gain.
The delegation also visited the community peace garden in Park Hill Park which brings together Croydon’s religious, cultural and community groups through their love of gardening and cultivation.
“Supporting people to maintain a healthy weight is an important issue for many countries. This was a great opportunity to share the work being done in Croydon to help residents to eat healthier food and exercise more, which can prevent the onset of conditions like heart disease, kidney problems, some cancers and high blood pressure.”
Councillor Jane Avis, cabinet member for families, health and social care
