Food theorists in conversation

We like to think that in every generation health and wellbeing are improving. Yet childhood obesity in the UK doubled in the 10 years to 2006, and startling statistics suggest the likelihood that some children born now in the UK will have shorter life spans and more illness than their parents due to a preventable epidemic of obesity. Often described simplistically in terms of personal or parental behaviour and responsibility, this interdisciplinary seminar with UH experts explores the structural and spatial planning and design factors that are contributing to ‘obesegenic’ environments for both adults and children.

Presentations will draw on insights stemming from Dr Susan Parham’s ‘socio-spatial practice’ research work on food and cities and Dr Wendy Wills’ sociological work on child and adolescent obesity. In a dialogue with each other and then with participants, the workshop style seminar will consider public policy, planning, design, and other strategies that may support food-centred space - and both respond to and destigmatise obesity in the urban environment.