If you live in Richmond upon Thames and have signed the SFM petition, you should have received a petition update. If not, please read below:
Following the summer break, I can now update you on SFM's dealings with Richmond Council over school meals.
WORKING PARTY
On 8 September, the officer in charge of school meals emailed to say "we may try and re-establish a schools-led group". I asked him to clarify whether LBRuT was still considering a working partnership with SFM and whether parents would be involved in future planning. His answer came back today as 'yes' to both. This is progress indeed. He also stated that the working party would consult with local schools and other local authorities that enjoy high take-up of school meals so that we can learn from their successes.
TIMELINE
With the next meal contract due to start September 2011, SFM is concerned about the lead time required to prepare the tender document. LBRuT has said that the working party will need to convene after half-term, then visit schools and other LAs before Christmas, so that a specification can be drawn up early 2010. SFM will continue to liaise with the council to ensure that we keep to this time frame.
YOU CAN HELP!
Over the next weeks and months you will receive doorstep visits from local politicians canvassing for your support in the council elections (May 2010). This is a golden opportunity to talk about Richmond's school meal service. You may want to talk specifically about your right as a constituent or as a parent using the meal service, to be involved in the decision-making process. Remember - talk to any party that knocks on your door - this is a cross-party issue and needs cross-party support.
DON'T FORGET ...
There's always room for more signatures on the SFM petition. And if you have anything to say about the SFM campaign, please email or comment on the SFM blog. Your feedback is always welcome.
Thank you for your continued support.
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