Alison Young Lead for Health and Wellbeing Children & Adults Services County Durham Primary Free School Meals Pilot,

This presentation will: Provide a context for the delivery of the Durham FSM pilot Provide information on the challenges faced Consider the solutions found and the lessons learned Provide colleagues with an opportunity to ask questions

239 primary schools, 209 in a school meals contract with Taylor Shaw and 30 ‘direct’

The Challenges ‘ kitchen readiness’ 239 light equipment 170 cooks 145 heavy equipment. 10 complete replacement kitchens 17 converted from regen to full production 2 pods 1 complete new build kitchen

The Challenges 74 ‘electrics’ 2 generators

The Challenges Special diets 117 before pilot (Sept 09) 527 in Jan 2011 (350% increase) Packed lunch ‘ban’

Our best assets…….

The solutions ……

Link creative projects with food / school meals

Gain support from the unlikeliest of places……..

Link with other ‘initiatives’ – adopt a whole school approach

“I can’t believe what Liam is eating. I couldn’t get him to try new things at home!” (Parent of Y2 child) “The children are much calmer in the afternoon and they are really enjoying the social aspects……” (Headteacher) “It’s made such a difference to us – knowing our 3 kids can now have a hot school meal……” (Low income family) “I’m loving cooking for the bairns and them eating it – it makes it all worthwhile” (School cook of 27 years)

Alison Young