Burnley Together urges local schools to join new childhood nutrition campaign

The campaign aims to raise awareness of healthy eating and support families with simple, affordable ideas for making nutritious meals at home. St Mary Magdalene’s Primary School is the first to take part, with pupils photographed this week for the campaign launch.

The work follows information gathered through Burnley Together, which shows that some families in the town are struggling with access to healthy, affordable food. The Council and its partners want to make it easier for parents and carers to get practical support, while encouraging healthier habits for children.

Campaign materials will highlight straightforward tips for families, including low-cost recipes and advice on choosing healthier options. Burnley Together’s existing cookery workshop shows that nutritious meals can be made cheaply, with some costing under 60p!

Schools taking part in the campaign will help promote the messages to parents and get involved in local photography and awareness activity. The goal is to keep the campaign grounded in real Burnley communities by featuring local families and school environments.

Burnley Together has already run several free cookery sessions for parents and carers, focusing on practical, low-cost meals and helping people build confidence in the kitchen. These sessions have been well received, and further workshops are planned so more families can take part. Additional recipes and guidance will soon be available on the Burnley Together website.

This campaign forms part of a wider Burnley Together initiative supporting families’ health and wellbeing throughout the year. Residents can also access information on keeping homes free from damp and mould in winter, support for heating costs, and help from the Council’s Health and Wellbeing Team for those who want to stop smoking.

The campaign will extend into the town centre next year, with cooking demonstrations, food tasters, recipe cards and information for families.

Councillor Jack Launer, Burnley Council’s Executive Member for Housing, Health and Culture said:

“Although we aren’t the health authority, we are seeing first-hand the impact that poor nutrition can have on children and families in Burnley. Many parents are under real pressure with the cost of food, and this campaign is about offering practical support that makes a genuine difference. It links with our wider work through Burnley Together to help families keep their homes warm and healthy in winter and to support people who want to stop smoking. St Mary Magdalen’s has been the first to get involved, and we hope other schools will join them as we roll this out across the borough.”

Mrs Loughran, Headteacher at St Mary Magdalene’s Primary School said:

“We were pleased to take part in the campaign and to have our pupils involved in the launch. Helping children understand the importance of healthy eating is really valuable, and anything that supports families with simple, affordable ideas is welcome. We’re proud to be the first school involved and we look forward to seeing the campaign grow.”

For more information about the campaign or to get involved, visit www.burnleytogether.org.uk or contact [email protected].