Why join the SFP network, and why go for an award? 

Why join the SFP network, and why go for an award? 

Local food partnerships are doing remarkable work. In towns, cities and countries across the UK, dedicated teams are building food systems that are healthier, fairer and more sustainable. But food work can be isolating, under-resourced, and hard to make visible. That’s where Sustainable Food Places comes in. 

Becoming a Member 

By joining the SFP network, you are becoming part of something bigger than your local patch. Members connect with over 120 food partnerships across the UK, sharing knowledge, tools, and experience with people who understand the work from the inside. 

"Becoming a member of SFP has been so positive for our Food Partnership. It's given us local credibility and momentum. We are really proud members of SFP." [attribution] 

Membership brings access to regional and national events, support from the SFP team, online toolkits and resources, and the chance to take part in campaigns and awards rounds. But, arguably most importantly, it connects your partnership to the heart of a movement that is growing in reach and influence. 

Going for an Award 

Applying for an SFP Award requires teamwork. This decision should be made together with your partnership, and the process itself is part of the value! 

Working towards an award gives your partnership a structured opportunity to map out what’s happening across your local food system, recognise the contributions of the stakeholders who may not yet be formally connected to your work, and generate momentum for collaboration. The process can sharpen your strategic thinking, deepen local relationships and make your work more visible to the authorities, funders and statutory partners whose support you need. 

"SFP provides much needed support for food partnerships to grow -- and a framework that supports local action which has been valuable in shaping strategic thinking and community level action." [attribution] 

Achieving an award brings national recognition and creates a moment for public celebration, one that can spark wider engagement and open doors with local institutions. 

"The SFP Programme has been a key factor and driver for Birmingham City Council. We have gone from a city clueless on what food policy meant to being a national and international leader in food system approaches." [attribution] 

The impact can be profound, and lasting. 

"We would not have been able to do this amazing work in our county without the support, funding and role models heading the SFP programme." [attribution] 

What you'll need 

To apply for an award, your place must be a current member of the SFP network. For a Bronze Award, you'll need a current one-year action plan. For a Silver Award, a three-year action plan is required. 

If you're ready to take the next step, whether that's joining the network or exploring an award, we'd love to hear from you.