Expanding Our Early Years Project in Southwark

We are delighted to announce the expansion of our Early Years project in Southwark, made possible through a new two-year contract with Southwark Council. Over the next 12 months, we will be partnering with local community organisations to improve the health of babies and young children through access to fresh fruit & veg.

More than a thousand families will benefit from weekly Rose Vouchers, worth £4 per child or £6 for under-ones, and an additional £4 per week for pregnant women. As always, parents can spend Rose Vouchers on their choice of high-quality fresh fruit & veg at local markets, putting money back into the local food economy. We are also exploring new partnerships with several social supermarkets, to give families even better value for money.

Tackling the Rising Cost of Healthy Food

Across the UK, healthy food now costs more than twice as much as ultra-processed options, which are often high in fat, sugar and salt. Parents are bombarded with junk food advertising, and high streets are flooded with fast food chains. So, it’s no surprise that 1 in 5 British children leave primary school facing a lifetime of food-related ill health. This figure rises to 2 in 5 in Southwark, a borough with some of the highest levels of deprivation in London.

British grocery inflation rose to 5.2% in the four weeks to October 5th and is expected to increase further before Christmas. With Rose Vouchers, families don’t have to cut fruit and veg out of their weekly shop, even when prices rise.

Reaching More Families Across Southwark

This expansion allows us to reach families in four new areas across the borough (locations to be confirmed). It also means families will have even more choice in where they shop and how they use their Rose Vouchers.

In partnership with 1st Place Children and Families Centre and other trusted local organisations, we make sure families receive wraparound support. This includes nutrition advice, employment guidance and housing support, ensuring families have the resources they need to thrive.

Giving Children the Best Possible Start

The first 1,001 days of a child’s life are crucial for shaping their future. That’s why our Early Years projects focus on families with children aged five and under, helping little ones to grow up healthy and strong.