Where's The Food?

The FareShare/Felix Campaign Team (FFCT) launched the multifaceted ‘Where’s The Food?’ campaign to secure government funding for surplus food redistribution, crucial for addressing food waste and supporting UK charities. Despite the success of an initial Defra funded trial scheme in 2019, Defra did not extend the trial, necessitating a renewed effort to demonstrate the scheme's social and economic benefits.

The in-house lead campaign, later agency supported, employed political lobbying, digital advocacy, and extensive media engagement. FFCT built political support by meeting with key figures like Defra Secretary Thérèse Coffey, Farming Minister Mark Spencer, along with engaging with key Special Advisors (SpAds) in Number 10. FFCT secured public backing from over 70 MPs. A petition garnered over 115,500 signatures, and an advocacy tool enabled public participation. Media efforts included interviews, op-eds, and coverage in major outlets, amplifying the campaign's message.

Challenges included political turbulence and civil service blocks, which FFCT navigated through careful messaging and stakeholder collaboration. The campaign's success culminated in Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's February 2024 announcement of a £15m commitment to surplus food redistribution.

FFCT's comprehensive strategy, overcoming significant obstacles, has resulted in funding that will prove transformational for the surplus food redistribution sector.