At present food poverty is often split between directorates and portfolios within local authorities, despite being a growing problem.

Half of councils do not have a dedicated lead member for food poverty, yet we know that having a named person brings focus and attention to any topic. That is why we suggest that councils should consider adding the explicit responsibility for food poverty to a lead member's portfolio.

According to our research, councils which have a single lead member for food were far more likely to work closely with a local food alliance, partnership or network. That's one other reason we think designating a lead member with responsibility for food justice is an important first step for councils seeking to tackle hunger in their area.