Category Archives: News
Shortlist for the CWT Charity Food Campaigner of the Year 2020 award
The Caroline Walker Trust (CWT) is delighted to announce the shortlist for CWT Awards 2020 Charity Food Campaigner of the Year. The awards celebrate the best of those who work to campaign to improve public health through good food.
The theme for this year’s award was to ‘To Triumph through Adversity’, to highlight the lengths that charities are going through to ensure those most vulnerable during Covid-19 are getting good quality food to support their health and wellbeing.
“Caroline Walker Trust awards are intended to highlight distinctive and outstanding work in promoting public health by maintaining and advancing standards of food and nutrition. This year we acknowledge those who are striving to make a difference when times are tough, and there are so many changes to our daily lives” said Kathy Lewis, Interim Chair of the CWT
“The calibre of nominees for 2020 was extremely high, especially in the face of such unprecedented adversity. Those shortlisted have shown resilience by adapting their charity to meet the needs of the most vulnerable members in our society, including children, families, the elderly and those with mental health issues.” Kathy Lewis.
The official shortlist of the CWT 2020 Annual Awards showcases the high calibre of charities working in a variety of settings to provide and improve the quality of our food and the nation’s diet. The final shortlisted nominees for Charity Food Campaigner of the Year comprised Chefs in Schools, Eat Well Age Well, Feast with Us and Feeding Britain. (Quotes from each are in the Editor’s Notes)
“This year, the Judging Panels have witnessed some extraordinary efforts to campaign for good quality food over the past year, which includes both before and during Covid-19 lockdowns. Learning about the lengths charities and charity founders have gone to provide good quality food fills us with the hope that we can collectively support each other’s health and wellbeing,” explained Kathy Lewis.
“The aim of these awards is to highlight the great work of Charities, to support those who are continuing to make a difference while inspiring a new generation of campaigners to do likewise,” said Kathy Lewis, Interim Chair of The CWT.
CWT would like to congratulate all the shortlisted nominees and everyone who submitted nominations. CWT would also like to thank the Judges for their hard work in judging the nominees from an impressive range of submissions.
For further information on the awards nominations: http://bit.ly/2Or9FAw
Contact Kathy Lewis [email protected] 07961 317 621
–ends—
Notes to the Editor
- For information on the background to the awards and how the result was arrived see: https://www.cwt.org.uk/the-caroline-walker-trust-awards-2020/
- The Caroline Walker Trust was founded in 1989 after the death of the distinguished nutritionist, writer and campaigner Caroline Walker. Established to continue her work and in her spirit, the CWT works tirelessly to promote the improvement of public health through good food. The work of CWT is particularly targeted towards vulnerable groups and people who need special help.
- This year the theme for the Awards is ‘To Triumph Through Adversity’. Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, the Reception and Awards Celebrations will now be held in 2021.
- Naomi Duncan, Chief Executive at Chefs in Schools, said: “We’re delighted to be shortlisted for this award. Our charity works to improve child health by transforming school food where needed. We train school kitchen teams to make all meals from scratch – including sauces and breads. We also campaign to change the perception of how school food should be.”
- Danielle Gray, Digital Communications Officer, Eat Well Age Well, commented: “We are delighted to have been shortlisted for our work in raising awareness and addressing the issue of malnutrition in older people living in Scotland. Malnutrition is often considered a hidden problem, and we thank the Caroline Walker Trust for giving greater recognition to this issue.”
- Hannah Style, Founder and Chairwoman of FEAST With Us, commented: “In multiple sites across London, FEAST With Us (FEAST) provides nutritious community meals using surplus food, eating with vulnerable and homeless people before lockdown, and now distributing food parcels. We thank our volunteers and staff who continue to fight food poverty and deliver vital FEAST services to relieve hardship as the need grows.”
- Andrew Forsey, Director of Feeding Britain, says: “The social Dunkirk of an emergency operation, being put into action across our network, is protecting tens of thousands of people from hunger and destitution. The provision of wraparound support as well is improving people’s longer-term ability to access and afford the food they need to live healthily.”
The Caroline Walker Trust Awards 2020
The Caroline Walker Trust (CWT) has great pleasure in announcing the shortlist for 2020 Annual Awards.
The CWT Annual Awards aim to recognise and celebrate outstanding work in promoting public health which maintains and advance the standards of food and nutrition. In doing so, the awards highlight the inspiring work of exceptional people who continue to drive through incremental positive changes to the nation’s health.
This year the theme was ‘To Triumph through Adversity’ aimed at acknowledging those who are striving to make a difference when times are tough and there so many unforeseen changes to our daily lives. Yet, they continue to make a difference in the provision and quality of our food and the nation’s diet.
There were many exceptional entries this year, and our judges, as usual, had their work cut out to decide from many high calibre nominations. We are delighted with the outcome of the judging panel recommendations following their intense scrutiny and insightful deliberations.
This year’s awards not only showcase the passion, courage and conviction of those who work so hard to improve the quality of our food and nation’s health during ‘normal times’, but also those who respond to the challenges and adapt during unprecedented times, notably to support the millions who are now living in poverty.
We were delighted to see such a range of innovative nominees who during pre-Covid dared to challenge the status quo, each demonstrating their excellence by being distinctive and outstanding in their work. Equally, we were impressed by those who went out of their way to improve the provision and quality of food during Covid-19 tiers and lockdowns.
Below are the entries which are now taking one step closer to gaining the title ‘Of the Year’ award.
Congratulations to everyone who entered and all those who have been shortlisted. We look forward to announcing the winners of each category on 27th November 2020 and at our Annual Awards Reception and Celebrations in 2021. The Caroline Walker Trusts hopes you can join us, post Covid-19, to recognise the fantastic efforts and contribution to improving the nation’s health.
Charity Food Campaigner of the Year 2020
Eat Well Age Well
Chefs in School
Feast with Us
Feeding Britain
Food Hero of the Year 2020
Suzanne Fletcher (Nutrition Scotland)
Haleh Moravej (MetMUnch)
Pascal Gerrard (Street Cube)
Ms Andrea Zick (Oxo Tower Restaurant)
Nutritionist of the Year 2020
Dr Farzard Amirabdollahian
Suzanne Fletcher
Zoe Griffiths
Holly Roper
Media Food Campaigner of the Year 2020
@AfNutr
Early Start Nutrition
Freelance Nutritionist of the Year 2020
Barbara Bray
Zoe Griffiths
Lee McCusker
Dr Lucy Williamson
Nutrition Society announce Winter Conference Live!
This year, the Nutrition Society will be holding its winter conference online.
The format will broadly follow that used for the highly successful Nutrition Society Live event held in July.
Date 8 – 9 December 2020
Registration link: https://www.nutritionsociety.org/events/winter-conference-live-2020
The topic
Micronutrient malnutrition, the deficiency of vitamins and minerals, is an issue across the whole life course, even in high-income countries. Micronutrient malnutrition often accompanies low intakes of both protein and energy and leads to serious developmental issues in children, affecting cognition, physical function, and growth. At the other end of the life-course, in older adults, recent research shows micronutrient malnutrition leads to a decline in physical function, loss of muscle and cognition, and poor quality of life, therefore, contributing to the diseases of ageing, including sarcopenia and frailty.
Micronutrients also help to maintain immune resilience, likely conferring protection against COVID-19. A number of clinical conditions including bariatric surgery and gastrointestinal diseases also lead to micronutrient malnutrition.
Despite the high prevalence and importance of micronutrient malnutrition this is less well recognised in older western populations. On the other hand, low and middle-income countries are experiencing the ‘double burden of disease’ where malnutrition coexists alongside the non-communicable diseases of ageing; obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
As micronutrient malnutrition leads to irreversible changes in growth, body composition and cognition in childhood as well as in older age rectifying deficiency of micronutrients is highly important.
Meeting Highlights
The meeting will highlight recent scientific developments, current understanding and debate surrounding micronutrient deficiency and requirements across the life-course. The four symposia of the conference will cover the topics of the importance and impacts of vitamin and mineral deficiencies in ageing and disease; sarcopenia, frailty, osteosarcopenic obesity and bariatric surgery. The symposia also cover the emerging issue of the ‘double burden of disease’ in low and middle-income countries as well as the importance of micronutrients during pregnancy and neural development in childhood. Finally, speakers in symposium four will focus on how issues of micronutrient malnutrition can be addressed, differences in micronutrient requirements across the life course and the development of dietary recommendations.
Click here to see the video of highlights
CWT launches hospitality’s first World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea
The Caroline Walker Trust (CWT) is delighted to announce Blue Orchid Hotels will be hosting the first World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea in hospitality to raise money to improve the quality of food for children living in poverty. The fundraising event will be hosted at the Tower Suites Blue Orchid Hotel in London, overlooking the Tower of London on Thursday 3rd September.
The World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea event is to be held in the hotel’s new Centro restaurant adjacent to the Tower of London, where attendees will enjoy a nutritious and healthier selection of savoury and sweet items. They will then proceed to the roof terrace for a glass of champagne whilst enjoying live music and a spectacular view over London’s skyline.
“We are proud to be spearheading the hospitality industry’s participation in the World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea, advocating a healthy diet, and raising funds for the vital work of the Caroline Walker Trust and St Andrew’s Youth Club, through Integrity International Trust, ensuring we make a positive difference to the communities in which Blue Orchid Hotels operate.” Tony Matharu, Chairman and Founder of Blue Orchid Hotels.
“The Blue Orchid Hotels is the first hotel to host this timely fundraising event. Not only does this initiative raise funds to support children living in poverty during term breaks, holidays and after school, but it also challenges our perceptions of the traditional afternoon tea, thus acting as world leaders in encouraging healthier options.” Kathy Lewis, Acting Chair, The Caroline Walker Trust.
Attendees include corporate travel buyers, community partners and Integrity International Trust charity ambassadors who will be joined by Caroline Walker Trust’s friends, Nutritionists and Dietitians whilst adhering to social distancing and Covid-19 protocols.
“A non-conventional afternoon tea is also intended to stimulate both the taste buds, hospitality providers and others so that we can offer confidence and reassurance in today’s new normal together with healthy, nutritious and safe dining and entertainment options.” Tony Matharu.
Covid-19 has made fundraising a seemingly impossible task for the Caroline Walker Trust. In a world where the temptation has been to close down and retreat, Blue Orchid Hotels, led by the former Hotelier of the Year, Tony Matharu, ensured that Tower Suites remained open throughout ‘lockdown’, accommodating critical care key workers and those seeking safe refuge. Consequently, The Caroline Walker Trust resolved the Blue Orchid Hotels was an ideal charity partner for the launch of their World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea fundraising initiative in hospitality.
We look forward to welcoming you to the new Tower Suites property, and enjoying our rooftop hospitality and spectacular views over the renowned world heritage site of the Tower of London.” Tony Matharu, Chairman and founder of Blue Orchid Hotels.
The Caroline Walker Trust
Kathy Lewis, Acting Chair, [email protected]
+44 02085364100, 7961317621,
Blue Orchid Press Enquiries
Nadia Perrier, [email protected]
+44 7487 792913
Notes to the Editor
- Venue: The Blue Orchid Hotel’s World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea will take place at the Tower Suites, 100 Minories, Tower Hill, EC3N 1JY
- Time: Afternoon tea is served from 4 pm to 9 pm.
- Booking on Eventbrite: https://bit.ly/31ChM3j
- The funds raised will go to the Caroline Walker Trust and Integrity International Trust, who are working to build brighter futures, fight health inequalities caused by food poverty and provide healthier food options for young children, especially during term breaks, holiday periods and after school.
- The Caroline Walker Trust was founded in 1989 after the death of the distinguished nutritionist, writer and campaigner Caroline Walker. Established to continue her work and in her spirit, the CWT works tirelessly to promote the improvement of public health through good food. The work of CWT is particularly targeted towards vulnerable groups and people who need special help. cwt.org.uk
- The World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea is a Caroline Walker Trust fundraising initiative aimed to raise awareness and funds to improve the quality of food provision for children living in poverty during term breaks, holidays and after school.
- Participants register to host an afternoon tea on worldshealthiestafternoontea.org.uk and money raised for the afternoon tea are donated to the Caroline Walker Trust on https://worldshealthiestafternoontea.org.uk/donations
- Projects supported by the World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea: include Registered Nutritionist led food clubs, holiday and after school food-based projects, healthy food workshops, sourcing healthier food options for term breaks, and expertise for holiday lunch provision particularly for special dietary needs, the malnourished and those living in obesogenic environments.
- The Caroline Walker Trust Logos:
- Integrity International Trust’s mission is to build positive futures for the most vulnerable people and enriches the lives of children living in poverty around the world.
- More locally, Integrity International Trust supports the St Andrew’s Club, the world’s oldest community-based youth club located in Westminster, where 40% of children are classed as living below the poverty Supporting around 700 local young people, St Andrew’s Club gives them the chance to thrive and give back to society through their varied youth programmes – helping them develop educationally, socially and personally through a wide range of activities – sport, art, practical skills, trips out, training, career develop together with weekly cookery class nurturing their understanding of nutrition and building vital life skills.
- Blue Orchid Hotels is a new private collection of independent luxury hotels located in the heart of London; the world’s most exciting city. Featuring some of the best-located properties in the capital, just minutes from the myriad delights of London’s arts and cultural attractions, Blue Orchid Hotels provides a wealth of history and local tradition, skilfully combined with contemporary luxury. You will always find interesting architecture, exquisite furnishings and warm, friendly service – the hallmarks of Blue Orchid Hotels. With its unrivalled experience, state-of-the-art technology and unique wellness offering, Blue Orchid Hotels is the most COVID-19 adopted hotel, providing safe and independent living options in the heart of London. blueorchid.com
- An advocate of partnerships and collaborative working, Blue Orchid hotels are committed to the idea of sharing and giving, respecting the environment and making a positive difference to the communities in which they operate.
- Blue Orchid Hotel Logo
Wanted: Trustee with Event Experience
The Caroline Walker Trust is growing rapidly and aims to achieve its strategic objectives with high profile events within the next 18 months.
Consequently, we are expanding our Board of Trustees to meet our objectives and are looking for someone with event experience to join the board. The candidate must be available to attend 4 – 6 board meetings per year and the occasional ad-hoc committee meetings. They will act in good faith to carry out the duties of the Trust in accordance with the objects and be accountable to their fellow trustees on the Board of Trustees.
Minimum Time Commitment:
- Trustees are expected to attend all board meetings. Board meetings are held 4 – 6 times a year after regular office hours. Board meetings last for approximately two hours.
- Meeting dates are arranged two to four months in advance.
- Trustees may be asked to join the following committees: Event Committee, along with acting as an advisor for the Strategy Committee and World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea Committee.
- Trustees can claim out of pocket expenses incurred in travelling to meetings.
The role of a Caroline Walker Trustee includes;
- Promoting and administering the charitable object above by the specific powers outlined in the Trust’s governing document.
- Assessing the changing environment and approve the organisation’s strategic direction.
- Contributing actively to the Board of Trustees by giving firm strategic direction to the CWT, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
- Appoving major policies, major actions of the organisation such as capital expenditure and major changes in activities and services.
- Each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guiding new initiatives, evaluating or offering advice on other areas, such as finance, marketing, law or public relations in which the trustee has particular expertise.
In the case of a person with Event Expertise, the Trustee is also expected to;
- Take responsibility of the CWT flagship annual events (Lecture Series and Annual Awards), reporting to the CWT Board on progress, as Chair of the Annual Awards and Lecture Series events sub-committee.
- To work with others (volunteers, staff and other trustees) as part of a sub-committee to support the delivery of the Annual Awards and Lecture Series.
- To work with the Treasurer to provide a budget for each event.
- To provide market intelligence to the CWT board to enable all Trustees to engage in evidence-based decisions on the running of the CWT annual events.
- To ensure the promotion of the CWT annual events, including on-line copy, press-releases and liaison with external partners organisations.
- To liaise with external venues and speakers for events.
- To work closely with CWT Trustee responsible for the business relationships and corporate sponsorship.
- Ensure event and sponsorship products are consistent with the Trust’s strategic objectives, partnership aims, and support in maximising opportunities for any cross-promotion of the event, sponsorship and partnership programmes.
Person Specification
- A commitment to the objectives and aims to the CWT,
- A willingness to attend board meetings and committee meetings,
- Integrity and strategic foresight,
- Good, independent judgement without conflict of interest or self-interest,
- A willingness to speak your mind and to challenge any information put forward,
- Provide candid and constructive criticism, advice, comments and praise,
- An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship,
- An ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to make collective decisions for the good of the Trust, and
- Previous Board experience.
In addition to the above, we are seeking someone with
- Knowledge of the health professional, charity and/or academic sectors.
- Experience of planning and running high quality, high profile lectures, fundraising events and award receptions.
- Experience in undertaking market research and working on event budgets.
- Interpersonal skills to influence and negotiate across teams and externally.
- A practical approach and a proven ability to work well with limited resources would be an advantage.
- Membership of the Institute of Fundraising, Chartered Institute of Marketing, or a member of a relevant professional body.
If you feel you can contribute as a Trustee to The Caroline Walker Trust’s objectives, then please apply with a covering note and CV to [email protected]
Interview with Freelance Nutritionist of the Year Dr Laura Wyness
Dr Laura Wyness, Registered Nutritionist, was awarded the title of ‘CWT Freelance Nutritionist of the Year 2019’ at last year’s CWT 30th Anniversary and Awards Reception for her outstanding and distinctive work in promoting public health and advancing standards of food and nutrition.
The judges were thrilled at how Laura’s work echoed the variety of work that Caroline Walker herself carried out. Similar in many aspects to Caroline Walker’s own work, Dr Laura Wyness has worked in a variety of roles from nutritionist, writer, author and campaigner for better food. Just like Caroline had experienced, the journey has been one full of surprises but also fulfilment. The road forward has many dips and turns, and there are many routes on how to make a contribution to improve the food we eat and understanding of the effects on our diet. Laura certainly demonstrated how she had followed in Caroline’s footsteps.
Laura’s work as a freelance nutritionist involves researching and writing nutrition content for publications and company websites, providing workplace wellness talks to businesses and personalised nutrition advice to staff.
She is part of the team of coaches at Edinburgh’s InsideOut Personal Training, where she provides nutritional support to members in the form of ‘Ask the Nutritionist’ sessions online and has developed menu plans and healthy recipes. She regularly assesses catering establishments for the Health Scotland’s ‘Healthy Living Award’ and provides advice on how to improve menu options.
Laura also regularly provides comments on nutrition for the media by working with journalists on articles, speaking on the radio, and writing nutrition tips for the recipes in the Ocado magazine. She has helped build up a network of nutrition colleagues through volunteering as AfN Scottish Regional Rep and co-founding the @AfNutr twitter chats.
Since winning the CWT Freelance Nutritionist award, Laura has joined the expert team at Ocado magazine, and has featured in The Telegraph, NutraIngredients, Happiful magazine and Delicious magazine. She has also spoken to nutrition students at various universities on nutrition careers and using social media as a nutrition professional. She is continuing to grow her consultancy business and client base.
We caught up with Laura to see what life has been like since winning Freelance Nutritionist of the Year 2019 award. Here’s what she had to say…
How did you feel when you were awarded Freelance Nutritionist of the Year 2019?
I was delighted to be invited to London for the Awards event. I loved being in the same room as so many talented nutritionists and getting to meet and chat with others working in such a variety of nutrition roles. It’s not often that the work of a Freelance Nutritionist is acknowledged, so I feel extremely grateful. To be recognised by the Caroline Walker Trust is such an honour.
Have you found your role as a Freelance Nutritionist a comfortable journey?
I worked in a variety of roles for several years before becoming a Freelance Nutritionist. The experience I gained from working in academic research, policy development, supporting the food industry and nutrition communications provided such a useful insight and understanding of the role of nutrition in health and wellbeing.
When I first started as a Freelance Nutritionist almost 4 years ago, it was a very steep learning curve and quite a lonely experience. However, I soon started to make use of the support available by going on business courses, attending networking events and joining groups like SENSE for self-employed nutritionists.
I love the work that I am able to do now and enjoy the opportunities that freelance work brings. The recent lockdown situation has meant revising my business plans and ‘pivoting’ some of my services so I can now offer nutritional consultations and workplace nutrition talks online.
I wouldn’t say the journey into Freelance nutrition has been comfortable, as the growth (or magic) usually happens when you push yourself out of your comfort zone. It’s certainly been an enjoyable experience and one that I continue to relish.
What is your advice to other Freelance Nutritionists?
Starting your own business can be hugely rewarding although quite scary at the same time. I have found regular networking to be a vital part for growing my business and have learnt a great deal from connecting with freelancers in nutrition and other industries.
Seek out the support that is available. The Association for Nutrition and the Regional AfN Facebook groups offer great support, and there are also lots of other useful Facebook groups for business advice, or for nutritionists working in specific areas where you can share advice and experiences.
It is also useful to give back and help others. Being a Food and Drink Ambassador, mentoring early career nutritionists, volunteering as an AfN Rep, and delivering career talks to nutrition students are all ways to support other nutritionists and improve our profession. It can be a hugely rewarding experience.
What is the most rewarding part of your role as a Freelance Nutritionist?
It is an amazing learning experience, not just about nutrition, but also learning about running a business and your own self-development. I feel is really important to communicate evidence-based nutrition information. I love being able to translate nutrition science into clear and practical messages and, above all, being able to pursue work that I find most interesting.
What have you gained from the award ‘Freelance Nutritionist of the Year’?
Winning this award has boosted my confidence. I feel I am still learning (and making mistakes) every day working as a freelance nutritionist, so to gain this recognition has given me a great sense of achievement.
What are the benefits of being recognised by CWT as an inspirational Nutritionist?
As a freelance nutritionist herself, Caroline Walker was passionate about improving public health through good food. With the increasing issues we face in food security and inequality, Caroline left an inspiring legacy for nutritionists to continue.
I am extremely grateful for the support and recognition from the Caroline Walker Trust. It has greatly inspired me to continue to promote the importance of public health nutrition.
Written by Kathy Lewis, RNutr.
Interview with Freelance Nutritionist of the Year Dr Laura Wyness
Dr Laura Wyness, Registered Nutritionist, was awarded the title of ‘CWT Freelance Nutritionist of the Year 2019’ at last year’s CWT 30th Anniversary and Awards Reception for her outstanding and distinctive work in promoting public health and advancing standards of food and nutrition.
The judges were thrilled at how Laura’s work echoed the variety of work that Caroline Walker herself carried out. Similar in many aspects of Caroline’s Walker own work, Dr Laura Wyness has worked in a variety of roles from nutritionist, writer, author and campaigner for better food. Just like Caroline experienced, the journey has been one of surprises and fulfilment, and as the road curves, dips and turns there are many ways to make a contribution to improve the food we eat and the understanding of the effects on our diet. Laura has certainly demonstrated how she’s followed in Caroline’s path.
Laura’s work as a freelance nutritionist involves researching and writing nutrition content for publications and company websites, providing workplace wellness talks to businesses and personalised nutrition advice to staff.
She is part of the team of coaches at Edinburgh’s InsideOut Personal Training, where she provides nutritional support to members in the form of ‘Ask the Nutritionist’ sessions online and has developed menu plans and healthy recipes. She regularly assesses catering establishments for the Health Scotland’s ‘Healthy Living Award’ and provides advice on how to improve menu options.
Laura also regularly provides comments on nutrition for the media by working with journalists on articles, speaking on the radio, and writing nutrition tips for the recipes in the Ocado magazine. She has helped build up a network of nutrition colleagues through volunteering as AfN Scottish Regional Rep and co-founding the @AfNutr twitter chats.
Since winning the CWT Freelance Nutritionist award, Laura has joined the expert team at Ocado magazine, and has featured in The Telegraph, NutraIngredients, Happiful magazine and Delicious magazine. She has also spoken to nutrition students at various universities on nutrition careers and using social media as a nutrition professional. She is continuing to grow her consultancy business and client base.
We caught up with Laura to see what life has been like since winning Freelance Nutritionist of the Year 2019 award. Here’s what she had to say…
How did you feel when you were awarded Freelance Nutritionist of the Year 2019?
I was delighted to be invited to London for the Awards event. I loved being in the same room as so many talented nutritionists and getting to meet and chat to others working in such a variety of nutrition roles. It’s not often that the work of a Freelance Nutritionist is acknowledged, so I feel extremely grateful. To be recognised by the Caroline Walker Trust is such an honour.
Have you found your role as a Freelance Nutritionist a comfortable journey?
I worked in a variety of roles for several years before becoming a Freelance Nutritionist. The experience I gained from working in academic research, policy development, supporting the food industry and nutrition communications provided such a useful insight and understanding of the role of nutrition in health and wellbeing.
When I first started as a Freelance Nutritionist almost 4 years ago, it was a very steep learning curve and quite a lonely experience. However, I soon started to make use of the support available by going on business courses, attending networking events and joining groups like SENSE for self-employed nutritionists.
I love the work that I am able to do now and enjoy the opportunities that freelance work brings. The recent lockdown situation has meant revising my business plans and ‘pivoting’ some of my services so I can now offer nutritional consultations and workplace nutrition talks online.
I wouldn’t say the journey into Freelance nutrition has been comfortable, as the growth (or magic) usually happens when you push yourself out of your comfort zone. It’s certainly been an enjoyable experience and one that I continue to relish.
What is your advice to other Freelance Nutritionists?
Starting your own business can be hugely rewarding although quite scary at the same time. I have found regular networking to be a vital part of growing my business and have learnt a great deal from connecting with freelancers in nutrition and other industries.
Seek out the support that is available. The Association for Nutrition and the Regional AfN Facebook groups offer great support, and there are also lots of other useful Facebook groups for business advice, or for nutritionists working in specific areas where you can share advice and experiences.
It is also useful to give back and help others. Being a Food and Drink Ambassador, mentoring early career nutritionists, volunteering as an AfN Rep, and delivering career talks to nutrition students are all ways to support other nutritionists and improve our profession. It can be a hugely rewarding experience.
What is the most rewarding part of your role as a Freelance Nutritionist?
It is an amazing learning experience, not just about nutrition, but also learning about running a business and your own self-development. I feel is really important to communicate evidence-based nutrition information. I love being able to translate nutrition science into clear and practical messages and, above all, being able to pursue work that I find most interesting.
What have you gained from the award ‘Freelance Nutritionist of the Year’?
Winning this Award has boosted my confidence. I feel I am still learning (and making mistakes) every day working as a freelance nutritionist, so to gain this recognition has given me a great sense of achievement.
What are the benefits of being recognised by CWT as an inspirational Nutritionist?
As a freelance nutritionist herself, Caroline Walker was passionate about improving public health through good food. With the increasing issues we face in food security and inequality, Caroline left an inspiring legacy for nutritionists to continue.
I am extremely grateful for the support and recognition from the Caroline Walker Trust. It has greatly inspired me to continue to promote the importance of public health nutrition.
Written by Kathy Lewis, R.Nutr., 2020
The Caroline Walker Trust launches the World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea
8 July 2020
The Caroline Walker Trust launches the World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea fundraising event
The Caroline Walker Trust is delighted to announce the launch of the World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea, taking place over the summer, commencing from 8 July 2020, with the accompanying website www.worldshealthiestafternoontea.org.uk. The aim is to raise funds for activities which will improve the provision of food for children living in poverty and low-income families during school holidays, term breaks, school closes and after school.
Over 4 million children go hungry or have inadequate healthy food every school holiday, and that number is about to rise due to the continuing Covid-19 situation. Over recent months food has been provided either via food vouchers or goodwill parcels from neighbours, teachers and charities.
“Unfortunately, it is unlikely the UK government will continue the voucher scheme for school meals after schools return in September. Realistically, something more permanent is needed to ensure more children will have access to adequate healthy food post these summer holidays,” explains Kathy Lewis, Interim Chair at the Caroline Walker Trust. “The World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea is an event which anyone can participate in to raise funds for children who may go hungry post-summer.”
The World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea is the Trust’s new annual fundraising event; however, it had to be delayed due to the Covid-19 lockdown. Subsequently, the Trust decided to launch the event post easing of the lockdown and extend the duration of the fundraising period so it could raise funds for the autumn and winter 2020, along with the spring of 2021.
“The ease of the recent lockdown means that people are now starting to meet other families and friends again. The Caroline Walker Trust is inviting people to ‘get together’ either virtually or in Covid-19 safe environments, such as small picnics, popup stalls and walk-throughs, to raise funds to help children who have inadequate healthy food as a result of poverty, low incomes or the continued Covid-19 circumstances.” Kathy Lewis explains.
The Trust also recognises there is a disproportionate number of children in low socio-economic areas who are malnourished or overweight. Often obesogenic environments in these areas encourage the purchase of cheap takeaways after school. The national health survey confirms that teenagers living in low socio-economic areas have a higher intake of fat, saturated fat and salt, while low intakes of vital nutrients such as Calcium and Iron. This poor-quality diet leads to a higher rate of obesity, malnutrition and health inequalities at an early age.
Monies raised from the World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea will be spent on activities which
- support and improve the quality of holiday food provision for children living in poverty;
- – after school projects providing healthier food options for children from low income-based families; and
- resources, information and expertise to enhance the quality of food and the improvement of the nation’s health.
The World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea also aims to change the perception of the typical British afternoon tea as being unhealthy and is providing healthier afternoon tea recipes to encourage the uptake of healthier options for afternoon tea going forward.
The new website www.worldshealthiestafternoontea.org.uk features healthier recipes, how to host Covid-19 safe afternoon teas and sample menus, along with the projects, The Caroline Walker Trust is aiming to raise money to support.
—–end—-
Kathy Lewis, Interim Chair, The Caroline Walker Trust
[email protected] 07961 317 621
Notes to the Editor
- For more information on The World’s Healthiest Afternoon Tea go to www.worldshealthiestafternoontea.org.uk
- The Caroline Walker Trust was founded in 1989 after the death of the distinguished nutritionist, writer and campaigner Caroline Walker. Established to continue her work and in her spirit, the CWT works tirelessly to promote the improvement of public health through good food.
- The work of CWT is particularly targeted towards vulnerable groups and people who need special help.
- The Caroline Walker Trust Logo:
StreetCube Steps Up To ‘The Social Distancing Sustainable Organic Market’ Plate
The StreetCube Great Organic Sustainable Market opens to the public on Friday, July 3rd at 10 am and is located on The Piazza, at SouthSide, Wandsworth High Street. SW18 4TQ.
StreetCube is the sustainable Street gastronomy project launched by MasterChef Raymond Blanc in SW London last year and CWT short-listed award finalists. It is advancing its quest to help change the future of food, nutrition and community empowerment by bringing the first and the biggest outdoor organic, sustainable food market to London.
On the familiar site where the project was first launched, at The Piazza, at SouthSide, Wandsworth High Street, the Streetcube team have had support and approval by their forward-thinking landlords LandSec to invite some of the Nations most ethical farmers and organic food producers to join them.
“We want to show London that in order to preserve and sustain the health of people and planet, we must fundamentally change our food systems from a global, broken industrial one, to a more organic, more local and more seasonal food system,” explains Pascal Gerrard, Founder of Streetcube. “Our supermarkets and City Centre eateries have been largely reliant on a chemical farming system, plastic-wrapped food and junk food chains that import unsustainable ingredients from around the globe, none of which are paying any attention to good health or to the environment.”
“It’s time for a change!” exclaims Pascal. “We need to move to a more regenerative, nutritious, sustainable food system with chefs and farmers guiding the way to using more local, seasonal, organic produce” explains Pascal. “Our soil is one of the most critically important elements in the overall health of us all and it is by far one of the biggest carbon sinks we have. Whatsmore, our farmers need help and support to grow better, more nutritious food and to work with our chefs to help reduce our impact on the planet”
The StreetCube project has received much positive attention and wide acclaim since its launch a year ago, including nominations for innovation and being short-listed for the ‘Food Hero of the Year’ award from The Caroline Walker Trust.
“We continue to refer to the advocates for support and expert advice and guidance. We get a lot of fact-based science data from our world-renowned experts for climate change, sustainability and nutrition, we publish it all on our website.”
“I don’t profess to know everything there is to know about sustainability, in fact, most of us are still getting to grips with it, but given that the Covid-19 pandemic could potentially be a result of our poor hygiene standards, lack of consideration for nature, and the rising risks of zoonotic diseases, we absolutely must radically change our food systems,” suggests Pascal
“The Great Sustainable Organic Market is being billed as London’s most significant in terms of its carbon negative impact and its focus on planetary and public health and we are inviting the UK’s finest organic growers, from across the entire U.K. – farmers, producers and even local volunteers. We want StreetCube to play a significant part in leading the way towards sustainable food – many local communities need to help drive community food growing and to form partnerships with land-owners to grow more food so that our chefs can translate the local nutrition into delicious sustainable Street Gastronomy – but our farmers and our organic growers play a very important part in the overall system. Without good, healthy soil, we just can’t nourish our children.”
“Research shows that more than 35% of all greenhouse gas emissions come from our industrial global food system, with deforestation due to beef production being the worst culprits. Transporting out of season food thousands of miles around the globe is also very heavy on CO2 and lower rates of nutrition as often food is picked before its ripe, and then it is force-ripened using chemicals and gas. The result is of much poorer quality food.”
The new outdoor market will feature farmers bringing organic, seasonal produce grown from within 100 miles of the StreetCube installation, which do not use plastic wrapping, and which contain higher nutrients due to less storage, with no risk to ingesting the cocktail of chemicals found on most fruit and veg. “Traditionally, we produce and consume less than 2% organic food in the U.K., and studies show that most of the food we import is coated with at least a dozen different chemicals. Whilst individual chemicals like Glyphosate are banned across Europe, the U.K. still allows the use of it. Manufacturers of these insect-killing chemicals are tested individually and deemed ‘safe’ for humans, but many law-suits in the US have swayed on the sides of farmers who have contracted cancer and other related illnesses.” states Pascal.
“We also need to be very aware of the kinds of ‘deals’ our government are negotiating with US produce. The United States has much lower food standards than we do here in the U.K. we must all be very aware of what our government are trying to push through Parliament without us realising. Chlorinated chicken, hormone-injected beef, genetically modified organisms are all part of an extremely detrimental industrial food system, and we all need to be very aware of what is around the corner in terms of climate change”, warns Pascal.
‘We are over-subscribed at the Wandsworth Sustainable Organic Market, a combination of pent-up demand and people longing to have access to better quality food, but we need more organic growers from the local area to apply and join us as we will soon be opening every day” states Pascal
StreetCube is all about giving everyone access to a more sustainable source of nutritious food, that everyone can afford – whilst caring for the health of people and planet. As we say at StreetCube;
“Good Food Doesn’t Have To Cost The Earth.”
