The Current State of the Healthy Start Food Scheme in the South West of England: A Qualitative Analysis with Stakeholders

Abstract

Introduction: The Healthy Start scheme (HS) was introduced in 2006 to provide a nutritional safety net for economically disadvantaged UK families. Uptake has been poor, with at times only 60 per cent of eligible families in the South West of the England registered. Online registration has recently been introduced, and this study explores the impact of this, plus the current state of HS, and why uptake has been low.

Methods: Qualitative semi-structured interviews were held with local stakeholders. Thematic analysis was conducted on interview transcripts. Participants were recruited online using purposive and snowball sampling. Interviews occurred over Zoom and used a standardised topic guide.

Results: Seven participants were recruited, and analysis revealed three key themes: i) HS barriers, ii) the importance of local teams, iii) suggested improvements. The online switch has streamlined applications, but HS recipients are hindered by digital poverty. Recent inflation and the cost-of-living crisis have blunted the impact the credit has for families.

Conclusion: HS has potential to reduce childhood food insecurity but is restrained by low uptake. An increase in funding for local teams along with a national advertising campaign would improve awareness. Families need help overcoming the digital poverty highlighted by the online switch. Eligibility should be expanded to families on Universal Credit with children under the age of five.

Keywords: Diet, Food insecurity, Nutritional sciences, Healthy Start, Health inequalities, Child health