A new initiative championing children’s right to access healthy and nutritious meals is being launched across West Cork, starting in Clonakilty. Spearheaded by chef and parent Gillian Hegarty, along with registered dietitian and parent Melissa Byrne, the project aims to ignite a community-wide conversation about the pivotal role food plays in shaping children’s health and habits.
“Today’s food landscape presents significant challenges to children’s wellbeing,” says Melissa. “Across a variety of settings – sports events, schools, after school activities, summer camps, pharmacies, shops, and community events – children are routinely offered ultra processed food (UPF) items such as jellies and sweets. Although often given with good intentions, the cumulative impact of these foods is raising alarms about the longterm health consequences for young people.”
Adding to the problem, the commercial food industry aggressively markets unhealthy products to children. Through bright packaging, strategic placement at eye level, and advanced food science, companies cultivate lifelong preferences for processed foods. Healthier alternatives, meanwhile, remain less accessible and considerably more expensive, further complicating efforts to promote better nutrition.
“The effects of poor nutrition are immediate and far-reaching,” says Melissa. “Children are at increased risk of dental issues, anaemia, weight gain, and, over time, chronic diseases like diabetes, obesity, and heart conditions.” The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified unhealthy, “health-harming” foods alongside tobacco, alcohol, and air pollution as significant global health threats.
Despite the challenges, Gillian and Melissa believe progress is achievable. Their initiative, which will launch in Clonakilty, seeks to transform local food environments, emphasising that community-driven action can redefine what is considered normal for children’s diets.
The initiative invites the Clonakilty community to reimagine the food surrounding its children. We are asking you to start a conversation with family and friends and make changes where possible. By making small, intentional changes, individuals and businesses can contribute to a broader cultural shift toward healthier habits.
“Clonakilty, renowned for its creativity, strong community spirit, and generosity, is uniquely positioned to lead this effort,” says Gillian. “The town could become a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating how collective action can foster a healthier future.”
‘Kid Friendly Clon’ award
Central to the initiative is the ‘Kid Friendly Clon’ award, which will encourage local businesses and organisations to commit to creating healthier food environments for children
Participants are asked to take simple, cost-effective measures, including: 1) Avoiding the distribution of ultra processed high-fat, high-sugar foods to children; 2) Training staff on healthy food policies for kids; 3) Offering healthier food choices, such as: A portion of fruit or vegetables with meals (e.g., a small fruit skewer, a cup of soup, or carrot sticks with hummus). Wholegrain carbohydrates (e.g., sandwiches made with brown bread or serving brown bread with soup). Appropriately sized desserts. Water as the default drink.
Businesses that join the programme will receive an official certificate and sticker to display, showcasing their commitment to children’s health. They will also be featured in promotional activities, unless they choose otherwise.
How to Join
Joining the ‘Kid Friendly Clon’ programme is simple. Interested businesses or organisations can reach out via email or phone to express their interest. After signing the charter, they’ll receive their certificate and sticker. Should a business decide to leave the initiative, they can return the materials and request removal from the programme’s records.
The ‘Kid Friendly Clon’ initiative underscores the need for a collective response to food related health issues. By fostering dialogue and encouraging actionable steps, it aims to pave the way for a healthier future for Clonakilty’s children.
For more information, to enrol in ‘Kid Friendly Clon’ or to chat to the team about getting your town or community involved, contact Gillian or Melissa.
Gillian Hegarty: gillheg@googlemail.com , 086 2195622 Melissa Byrne: melissaclaudiabyrne@gmail.com, 086 8240279
