Delivering multidisciplinary public health in action - the Cardiff food strategy case study

BACKGROUND: There is an increasing awareness that the provision of healthy food relies on the co-ordinated efforts of a number of diverse disciplines, not merely those traditionally linked with food. This paper documents the development of a food and health strategy, commissioned by the health alliance for the city of Cardiff, and focuses on the areas of sustainability, education and training as well as nutrition, food provision and food safety. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the strategy was to increase the uptake of a healthy, safe and sustainable diet for all those living in Cardiff. METHOD: The methodology included a rapid appraisal of food initiatives operating within the city, establishing a food and health strategy working group and the production of strategy documentation. Multi-agency collaboration and consultation were key components of the approach. RESULTS: As the strategy developed, seven action areas became apparent, including education and training, public sector procurement and rewarding excellence. These action areas were incorporated into seven 'action tables', which constitute the core of the strategy. The food and health strategy document was ratified by the Local Health Alliance board in August 2004. But, far greater benefits were realised as a consequence of setting up the strategy working group. Long before the document was written, the strategy process was operating as 'multidisciplinary public health in action'. CONCLUSION: The network that comprised the food and health strategy working group was already able to commence delivery of a more integrated approach to food and health within Cardiff.