FOOD & LAND
Healthy land and good food go hand in hand. When we look after our soil, hedgerows, woodlands and farms, we support wildlife and keep our land resilient. Nature‑friendly farming and good land management also help the Forest of Dean adapt to climate change, protect local jobs and make sure there’s enough good‑quality, affordable food for everyone.
FODCAP supports this by connecting local growers and community groups with volunteers, and by pointing people towards funding and practical opportunities. Our aim is to help build thriving, resilient communities where everyone can access low‑cost, healthy food.
Save money: Planning meals, reducing waste and choosing seasonal produce can stretch your weekly shop.
Feel better in yourself: Gardening, growing food or simply being outdoors supports mental and physical wellbeing.
Build healthier habits: Getting involved locally often leads to eating more fresh, nutritious food.
Strengthen local food security: Supporting local growers helps our community rely less on long supply chains.
Bring people together: Community gardens, shared meals and local events help people connect and support one another.
The benefits of taking action on food
How you can get involved
Buy from local producers and markets.
Join or start a community growing project.
Meet with other growing groups to share knowledge.
Volunteer with a local group — use our Interactive Map to find opportunities.
Forest Food Network
We support initiatives like The Forest Food Network, which brings together local growers, community groups and residents to improve how food is grown, shared and enjoyed across the Forest of Dean.
Across the district, people grow food in community gardens, gardening clubs and allotments - many supported by volunteers. Even a small amount of your time can make a real difference. You can meet new people, enjoy being outdoors, share fresh local food and help care for the soil, wildlife and local environment - while strengthening our community.
The Forest Food Forum – People’s Assembly
Local people have come together at two community events to share food, meet new people and talk about how we can make good, affordable food available to everyone in the Forest of Dean. These welcoming events gave people the chance to share ideas and suggest practical steps — from improving access to fresh, local food to helping families build healthier eating habits.
The discussions also looked at challenges facing the Forest of Dean, including rising childhood obesity and greater reliance on processed foods. By bringing people together, the forums have helped us better understand what our communities need and what action could help more people enjoy healthy, local food every day.
