Influencing change
We work to ensure we share Food Train’s members' voices and stories with decision-makers at all levels of government. We want to ensure older people’s voices are at the heart of decision-making in Scotland.
About policy at Food Train
From the innovative work of our Eat Well Age Well Project to our annual members survey to regular informal conversations with our members, Food Train collects a range of information to help us understand the needs of our members. We use this information to advocate for change in policies and new ways of working within all levels of government and other organisations across Scotland.
With a focus on access to food, prevention of malnutrition, and reduction of social isolation Food train believes that change is possible and will improve the lives of older people. The video below highlights the work we have done so far and what we are looking to achieve in the future.
2025/2026 manifesto asks to the Scottish Government.
Backed by our members who have said loudly and clearly, “We deserve greater dignity and independence”, our calls to action aim to ensure every older person in Scotland can eat well, age well and live well at home.
We believe these five asks are bold but achievable:
- Ringfence funding for community-based food access for older people.
- Enshrine the right to food for older people in Scots law.
- Launch a national malnutrition prevention and screening programme.
- Invest in volunteers and community-led support.
- Involve older people in food and health policy design.
2026- 2031 Strategic Plan
As we enter a new chapter in the life of Food Train, we are proud to launch our 2026–2031 Strategy. This is more than just a plan; it is a promise—a promise to the thousands of older people we serve, to our volunteers and partners, and to future generations navigating ageing in Scotland.
You can read our Strategy document here and watch our video clip below.
One of the areas we have successfully influenced change is the commitment by Scottish Government to introducing food policy in Scotland. We worked with many organisations to campaign and subsequently strengthen the Good Food Nation (Scotland) Act. Food Train will now continue to play a central role in ensuring this is implemented in communities across the country and that everyone can eat well and age well.