Tayberry seedling

Access to a healthy nutritious meal is not available to all members of society. Since 2009 across the UK there has been a staggering increase of > 4500% in the use of food banks (Trussell Trust, 2017). In England, 26% of the population were defined as inactive with obesity prevalence at 27% (NHS England, 2017) mostly driven by disadvantaged sectors of society. Furthermore, c. 45% of adults in England ate fewer than 3 portions of fruit and vegetables daily. In areas of Scotland this figure is worse. Using Dundee as a city model, early stage discussions have occurred with a range of stakeholders - medics, academics, the City Council, community champions and social enterprises to develop a participatory city scale project of growing soft fruit (raspberry & blueberry) for the provision of healthy nutritious food that leads to physical activity; additionally with the potential to increase green space known to have a positive impact on mental health. To shape project development prior to seeking funding we require key early stage user data to understand the needs of citizens from across different societal sectors to ensure that it has focussed and relevant deliverables. Furthermore, we will explore and begin to define new commercial models as a potential business for this concept.