Birmingham Food Council creates food security game

In January 2018, the project team shared a thorough report on upcoming trends, suggesting four actions for the UK Government to consider.

The article 'Returning from the future' brought attention to the size and immediacy of risks that are affecting the country's food system, revealing a 'shortage of ability' within the government and other organizations to take action effectively.

The council was very worried because they felt that nobody in the national government understood the difficult situations that were coming. This led to the creation of The Game.

The scenario workshop aims to expand and enhance players' knowledge of potential agricultural and food futures and examine how choices made to prevent or lessen crises affect communities.

Moreover, participants will be able to become part of a group of former students, which aims to have a significant impact on shaping policies related to readiness planning for the UK's food supply.

The game is meant to be played with groups of 4-6 people who work together to take care of a city. Players will need to make choices and take actions to make sure that the residents have enough, safe, and healthy food. They will need to respond to different challenges, like climate change and growing population.

The Game has been played multiple times by participants from various sectors such as retailers, manufacturers, and law enforcement. It is regularly updated to mirror current events in the real world.

Reflecting on a recent workshop, Sophie Hosking, who is in charge of neighbourhood planning at Cornwall County Council, stated: "When I first learned about The Game, I couldn't wait to participate in the discussion on UK food security. I was not disappointed."

Another past participant, Tom Hollands, who is the technical innovation director at Raynor Foods, noted that it was an excellent learning resource for leaders.

The upcoming gathering is scheduled for October 10, 2024 at Mills & Reeve Solicitors in Birmingham.

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