Expanding North Lambeth pilot to improve health in schools

Following a successful pilot beginning in 2018, we are expanding a scheme to tackle childhood obesity in North Lambeth. 

Over four years, we will invest £900,000, working with schools and others in the local area. Battersea Power Station Foundation have contributed a further £500,000 to support the expansion.

Piloting new ways to eat and exercise in schools

The pilot supported children’s health in the local Oasis Academy primary and secondary schools. The expansion will build on this work to find sustainable ways to make healthy food and physical activity more accessible.

Over two years, the pilot provided more opportunities for the 800 students to run and play. We tested a range of innovative and scalable activities across the schools. Included in these were:

• Fresh fruit and vegetable stalls, selling food at wholesale prices to incentivise parents to buy fresh produce
• Active art classes, introducing physical activities not based on team sports

Looking beyond schools

While the pilot was focused on school environments, we know how young people eat and get active is influenced by many other places. The expansion will look at changes to early years settings, homes, and the local high streets.

The new projects will tap into community-led activism, working with local businesses and other key players to change the types of food available on the high street, while supporting healthier local food ventures.

The long-term aim is to make affordable, tasty and healthy food the easiest option for local children and families.