Break within a break reveals shortcomings within the food system, and seeks to act on them through design interventions. London seems to have a robust food system on the surface; however lack of access to food within communities is prevalent, leaving some Londoners reliant on food banks and emergency food services. 8% of parents in London have flagged that due to lack of funds, their children miss meals. My thesis project explored design interventions within this food system.
Research
My research included interviews, observational research, and secondary research into the lives of clients of the food banks. While food banks serve a noble purpose, my conversations with these individuals revealed the discrepancies that exist within this
system. With this research I was able to design a stakeholder map that revealed the breaks within the food system.
system. With this research I was able to design a stakeholder map that revealed the breaks within the food system.
Prototyping
As part of the prototyping process I would have conversations with Val, the food bank manager. She has been working within this system for over 5 years, and therefore had great insight. I would take the prototypes to her and together we would discuss and critique what it would mean for these objects and services to intervene with the system.
Outcome
Through a set of discursive objects for a systems redesign, my main aim was to take this research to people in the government and discuss or talk with them about the need to address the problem of food insecurity over a tea break. The objects act as prompts to
recognize, discuss, and solve some of the breaks.
recognize, discuss, and solve some of the breaks.
Trolley trust
Food banks predominately supply nonperishable food, in the form of tins and dried items. Therefore clients then carry 12-15 kg home following each visit. Trollies could help clients who live locally, to carry their food home. This could be done by food banks storing a few trolleys, and loaning them as needed.
Food crate service
Clients often travel by foot to avoid transport costs to and from the food bank. The intention of the crate is to enable volunteers to
gather and pack the food donated for clients. After which they can note down the clients address, and a local supermarket would pick up the food to deliver it to the clients doorstep.
gather and pack the food donated for clients. After which they can note down the clients address, and a local supermarket would pick up the food to deliver it to the clients doorstep.
3 times 3 days
Clients are only able to redeem three food bank vouchers over each six month period. Each voucher entitles them to food that is calculated to last three days. The set includes small scale versions of the food a client would receive at a food bank to last three days. The intention of this object is to highlight the lack of fresh food received at a food bank and understand how much food is needed to sustain oneself.
