Food security is a critical component of the geography curriculum. In the UK, the conversation is often dominated by the rise of food banks. This session will argue that this focus, while important, obscures the systemic and geographical nature of food insecurity that affects the 'missing majority' who never use a food bank. Drawing on recent research, we will reframe food insecurity as a 'capability deprivation' - a failure of social and spatial systems. We will use the concept of the 'foodscape' to explore the everyday, local barriers people face, moving beyond simple proximity to consider mobility, time and social stigma. Finally, the talk will introduce the 'food ladders' framework as a more dignified and resilient, place-based approach. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of local food security and practical activities to help GCSE and A level students critically analyse their own community's food systems.
