CFHS, in partnership with NHS Forth Valley, has completed a pilot using an integrated approach to promote increased awareness of the Healthy Start scheme, Healthy Start vitamins and the benefits of the voucher scheme in accessing fresh fruit and vegetables.  The pilot was delivered in Camelon and the Falkirk Braes areas.

The main objective was engaging and supporting existing local community initiatives to develop and integrate food activities that promote Healthy Start and maternal and infant nutrition within existing services. Some outcomes achieved from the pilto include:

– increased awareness of Healthy Start in targeted communities
– improving local information about Healthy Start
– development of new partnerships and networks
– improved integration of Healthy Start into existing work practice
– Healthy Start used a catalyst to engage with parents/carers
– key messages about maternal and infant nutrition, Healthy Start and Healthy Start vitamins communicated

The report, Putting Healthy Start on the map, from the pilot is now available.

CFHS is supporting a similar initiative in the Kintyre area of Argyll and Bute in partnership with Home Start MAJIK. A report on this initiative will be available later.

A factsheet highlighting the links between community food co-op/outlet activity and Healthy Start will be available soon.