Over the past five years, the Just FACT programme in Tower Hamlets has brought communities together to develop an alternative food system that is environmentally sustainable, socially just, and community-led. Co-coordinated by the Women’s Environmental Network (Wen) and funded by the National Lottery Community Fund’s Climate Action Fund, the programme supported 26 projects that explored what a fairer food system could look like in an inner-city borough facing deep inequality and climate pressures.
Through initiatives such as Food Co-ops, culturally appropriate crop growing, and pilots reducing financial barriers to organic produce, communities increased access to healthy, sustainably produced, and affordable food. Twenty-six grassroots organisations reached over 20,000 people, engaging residents where they gather and ensuring inclusive participation.
Just FACT also focused on building knowledge, skills, and employability through 1,292 workshops, practical training sessions, and formal accreditation. Volunteer efforts were converted into paid roles, and a strong local movement emerged through regular partner meetings, shared learning, and active support for grassroots initiatives. The network grew to include 60 groups and individuals, alongside 280 members of the Tower Hamlets Food Partnership.
Projects trialled ways to reduce the food system’s climate impact, including local food production, composting, and food redistribution. The Plastic Free Markets initiative alone cut 364,000 plastic bags annually. Importantly, the programme empowered communities to co-design projects, establish self-governing structures, and decide how funding should be allocated, with a focus on wellbeing, health, and reducing social isolation.
The insights and community-led approach from Just FACT have already influenced policy, shaping Tower Hamlets Council’s five-year Transforming Food Systems strategy, which continues to evolve with ongoing community input.
