On 22nd May 2025, we gathered a diverse group of changemakers in Belfast to mark the launch of the Food Issues Census 2024-25 in Northern Ireland. This pivotal event brought together farmers, community activists, funders, researchers and policymakers to explore a bold vision for the future of food, farming, and funding across NI.
Brink! was one of the country steering group partners for the Census, so it was fitting to hold the event at its incredible urban garden. An outdoor space under a large canopy, surrounded by street art, heritage plants and even a small city orchard, Brink! is the perfect unconventional setting for breaking away from the status quo. A really good reminder for us all that where we choose to host events is an important part of designing them. A conducive space for conversation and debate can create the environments we need to facilitate change.
The conversations were rich, radical, and rooted in the experiences of those working at the grassroots. What emerged was a powerful A–Z of ideas, challenges, and opportunities – here are our highlights, with each letter representing a spark of insight into how we might reimagine our food system.
Participants called for more visible activity, demonstrating that change is not only possible, but already happening. From guerrilla planting to greengrocers owned by communities, the energy was palpable.
There was a clear call for distributed leadership models that spread power and enable local actors to lead. A manifesto for change, rooted in community values and radical collaboration, was proposed as a way forward.
A recurring theme was the need to rethink how funding flows. Current models often stifle creativity and compound the status quo. Attendees advocated for joint, collective funding approaches that empower communities and support experimentation and innovation.
Again and again, participants talked about the need for investment in doing things differently. And the many different dividends that will come if we do.
Networking events like this one are more than just meetings—they’re catalysts. They spark ideas, build relationships, and create momentum. The Belfast launch was a reminder that place-based approaches can unlock capacity and inspire innovation.
The idea of a dedicated think tank for horticulture and food was floated—one that could drive strategic thinking, support innovation, and champion sustainable practices across Northern Ireland.
Creating the conditions we need to experiment and innovate was a common theme. Also ‘X Marks the Spot’, a call to find your local sustainable food community and get involved.
From zero-emission supply chains to zero-risk community projects like repair cafés, this event highlighted that the vision is there, we need to ramp up the action.
The Food Issues Census is more than a data-gathering exercise. It’s a way to map, connect, and amplify the movements shaping the future of food across the UK. We invite everyone – from policymakers to growers to funders – to use the results as a launch pad to imagine new ways of doing things, to question the status quo, and to build a system that nourishes people, animals and planet alike.
As one participant put it: “You don’t need to know everything before you begin doing something.” That spirit of courage, collaboration, and community will be essential as we all work towards the future that we need.
