Parliament As A Young Food Ambassador
Alex D Istrate
"Last week, I had the opportunity to step into Parliament as a Young Food Ambassador for The Food Foundation participating in the Superpowers of Free School Meals (FSM) event. This initiative brought together a coalition of voices; Parents, Headteachers, Chefs at Schools, and Young Food Ambassadors; each sharing their unique perspectives on food insecurity and the urgent need to expand FSM.
The event focused on two key objectives:
- Expanding eligibility for FSM – ensuring no child in need is left behind.
- Introducing automatic enrolment – removing administrative barriers so that every eligible child receives the support they deserve without unnecessary red tape.
Representing the voice of young people, I spoke directly with MPs, civil servants, and advisors, highlighting how FSM is not just about nutrition but about unlocking potential. Proper investment in school meals leads to better educational outcomes, improved concentration, and higher overall attainment. If this government is truly committed to investment, its priority must be investing in the future.
It was inspiring to hear from passionate MPs, notably Chris Webb, who strongly advocated for expanding FSM provision. He underscored the critical role of investment in ensuring future generations have the nourishment and support they need to thrive.
During the event, I engaged with several MPs from across the political spectrum, including:
- Chris Webb (Labour, Blackpool South)
- Jeremy Corbyn (Independent, Islington North)
- Ellie Chowns (Green, North Herefordshire)
- Kim Johnson (Labour, Liverpool Riverside)
- Manuela Perteghella (Liberal Democrat, Stratford-on-Avon)
- Adnan Hussain (Independent, Blackburn)
- Theo Clark, advisor to Sarah Dyke
(Liberal Democrat, Glastonbury & Somerton)
These discussions reinforced the urgency of addressing food insecurity as a cross-party issue. The evidence is clear: ensuring that no child goes hungry at school is not just a moral imperative—it’s an economic and social necessity.
The conversation doesn’t stop here. It’s time for real policy action. Who else will step up to ensure every child has access to the food they need to thrive?"
