Frontline workers, community groups and volunteers across Walsall are encouraged to take up free online training to support everyday conversations with residents about food, nutrition and managing healthier choices.
The sessions are aimed at people who regularly speak to individuals, families or communities about food, health, wellbeing or financial resilience. They are delivered by Food for Life, run by the Soil Association, in partnership with Walsall Council Public Health.
The training provides practical, evidence‑based information to support discussions around healthier and more affordable food choices. It introduces simple nutrition messages that can be used in everyday interactions and includes an introduction to the Eatwell Guide, budget‑friendly nutrition advice, an overview of local food priorities, and access to downloadable resources and a digital certificate.
“ Frontline and community workers, as well as volunteers, often have everyday conversations with residents about food, health and managing on a budget. This training offers practical information that can support those conversations and help people feel more confident discussing affordable, healthier food choices. “
Nadia Inglis, Director of Public Health
Walsall Council
The sessions also introduce the use of Very Brief Advice (VBA) as a way of creating short, meaningful interactions about food and nutrition. This can be used in a wide range of settings and conversations and contribute to broader work such as developing healthy eating plans and frameworks in schools, community groups and other local environments.
The sessions are suitable for a wide range of roles and settings, including frontline workers, volunteers and community workers, early years providers and school staff, housing organisations, voluntary and community sector organisations, community shops and care settings, community food growers and growing groups, and anyone supporting residents with food, wellbeing or financial resilience.
People in volunteering roles and those who would like to support others in making healthier food choices are also encouraged to sign up. No prior knowledge or training is required.
Recognising that many frontline and community workers and volunteers have varied working patterns and commitments, the training is online and offered at different times of day to support accessibility. All sessions are delivered live by qualified Food for Life trainers and are taking place on the following dates:
Wednesday 13 May, 12.30pm – 3pm
Friday 15 May, 9.30am – 12pm
Monday 18 May, 6.30pm – 9pm
Wednesday 20 May, 12.30pm – 3pm
Thursday 21 May, 9.30am – 12pm