What are effective strategies for promoting policies that support access to nutritious food?

1 Identify the problem and the stakeholders

The first step in promoting policies that support access to nutritious food is to identify the problem and its root causes. What are the factors that contribute to food insecurity, malnutrition, obesity, or other food-related health issues? How do they affect different groups of people, such as low-income families, racialized communities, rural residents, or indigenous peoples? Who are the stakeholders that have an interest or influence in the issue, such as government agencies, food producers, retailers, consumers, or advocacy groups?

2 Research the evidence and the alternatives

The next step is to research the evidence and the alternatives for addressing the problem. What are the best practices and proven interventions for improving access to nutritious food? What are the costs and benefits of different policy options, such as subsidies, taxes, regulations, education, or community initiatives? How do they align with the values and goals of social work, such as human dignity, empowerment, diversity, and social change?

3 Build coalitions and networks

The third step is to build coalitions and networks with other stakeholders who share your vision and values. How can you collaborate and coordinate with other social workers, organizations, or movements that are working on food justice issues? How can you leverage your collective resources, skills, and influence to amplify your voice and impact? How can you engage and mobilize the people who are most affected by the problem and include them in the decision-making process?

4 Communicate your message and your ask

The fourth step is to communicate your message and your ask to the policy makers and the public. How can you frame your issue and your solution in a clear, compelling, and evidence-based way? How can you tailor your message and your ask to different audiences, such as politicians, media, or community members? How can you use different channels and platforms, such as letters, petitions, campaigns, or social media, to reach and persuade your target groups?

5 Monitor and evaluate the outcomes

The final step is to monitor and evaluate the outcomes of your policy advocacy efforts. How can you measure and track the progress and impact of the policy changes that you advocated for? How can you collect and analyze feedback and data from the stakeholders and the beneficiaries of the policy changes? How can you celebrate and share your successes and learn from your challenges? How can you sustain and scale up your efforts and adapt to changing contexts and needs?

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?