Good Food Barking & Dagenham

What we do

Improving food education and careers 

We are developing the vision for a borough food school in Barking town centre as a unique place to gain skills in world cuisine and food innovation. The school will support communities into good food jobs created by the markets and across London, as well as meeting the skills needs of the traders.  

We’re also working with schools to improve food education across the curriculum – with support from local good food entrepreneurs, the charity School Food Matters and our Council-owned, London Living Wage catering company BD Together, which is recognised by the Soil Association for its work to provide healthy and environmentally sustainable food to schools.

Improving the food offer in Barking Town Centre 

We are developing plans for a food hall in Barking town centre including community kitchens and subsidised space for food entrepreneurs. It will provide a key resource to support local diverse, ethical, community-led food businesses to thrive as well as improving the food and beverage offer in the town centre. 

Supporting Good Food Enterprise   

We’re developing a Good Food Enterprise Programme to support both our early-stage and more established food enterprises. Support will include mentoring and grant opportunities, as well as advice and guidance around nutrition, sustainable supply chains and waste reduction.

Helping residents to Grow, Cook, Eat good food 

We are working with social sector organisations to help communities grow, cook and share food together. The cooking clubs provide a space for residents to discover new recipes and foods, as well as share their own skills and build confidence in the kitchen. Participants are also offered free Level 1 and 2 Food Hygiene Training. 

Food is a great connector: as well as helping people access skills and support to be more food secure, participants are spending time together, sharing their food stories and creating recipes together. Everyone has something to contribute!