The development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of a food and nutrition policy within a local health plan

Local food and health policies were initiated in the UK in the early 1980s, and this paper traces developments in Leicestershire, England. The first policy was launched in 1987, which promoted the nutrition education messages of that time (less fat, more fibre and less sugar), primarily within the National Health Service. As a result of the publication of the Health of the Nation Green Paper in 1991, a local health plan was developed for Leicestershire, in which nutrition formed an integral part. Wider perspectives on nutrition have evolved reflecting the multidisciplinary approach to developing the Food and Nutrition Policy. In addition, updating of the nutrition messages in the local Food and Nutrition Policy has occurred to reflect the shift in emphasis towards nutritional adequacy and balance. The scope for implementation is now much wider, involving several key settings in the community, and there is an increased emphasis on monitoring and evaluation.