News

Following the announcement of the Government’s childhood obesity plan in August, caterers, health experts, campaigners and MPs spoke of their disappointment at the modest scope of its proposed action.

Now a line-up of the same people is being brought together at The Childhood Obesity Summit at The Royal Society in London on November 3 to look at what happens next - and caterers are being urged to get involved.

LACA's School Caterer magazine has negotiated a 15% discount on the standard rate, which you can activate when you register by using the discount code: catererdiscountminus15pc.

To see the full programme and register as a delegate visit: www.childhoodobesitysummit.co.uk.

The summit has attracted Dr Sarah Wollaston, MP and chair of the House of Commons Health Select Committee, Professor Sally Davies, chief medical officer, Emma Reed, programme director of childhood obesity at the Department of Health and Dr Alison Tedstone, director of diet and obesity with Public Health England, to head a day-long programme that promises to look at childhood obesity ‘from policy to action’.

A spokesperson for summit organiser Nutrilicious said: “Industry players we have spoken to in crafting this programme are very much in ‘listening mode’ at the moment looking for leadership, to share views, discuss new changes and challenges.

“It’s a critical point in time, in terms of action and next steps.  It’s so important that we have all key industry players in the room, contributing to and listening to the discussions, debates and next steps.”

She added that caterers had an important role to play and urged those involved in feeding youngsters to sign up to attend.

“It’s your chance to get up close and personal with those that are making central decisions about how we impact on childhood obesity in the UK which includes the catering and out of home sectors.”

Other speakers involved include Rosie Boycott of the London Food Board, Linda Cregan, chief executive of the Children’s Food Trust, Sue Davies, chief policy advisor for Which?, Judith Buttriss of the British Nutrition Foundation and Professor Jonathan Valabhji of NHS England.

The programme has four sessions throughout a full day, they are: Childhood Obesity Strategy and Policy; Changing Diets; Public Health and Primary Care; and Continuing the Conversation: What’s Next?

Each will feature presentations followed by a panel debate during which delegates get a chance to quiz speakers.