Chris Haskins Championed Research into Liverpool's Food Deserts
Prof John R Ashton has paid tribute to the late Chris Haskins, describing him as a champion for the left behind in northern England. In a response to an obituary, Ashton highlighted Haskins' commitment to social justice, particularly through his support for research into food deserts in inner-city Liverpool.
Generous Funding for Hidden Injustice
As a junior public health academic, Ashton experienced Haskins' openness firsthand. After sending a cold-calling letter about the problem of food deserts, he was invited to attend Northern Foods directors' meetings in Hull. Haskins provided generous funds for research into this hidden injustice, enabling a detailed investigation.
The research revealed that poverty-stricken communities in Liverpool had limited access to affordable, wholesome food. Instead, they relied on overpriced processed and tinned items from corner shops, whose owners often lived in affluent suburbs outside the city.
A Beacon of Ethical Capitalism
With Lord Haskins' support, the study shed light on how social exclusion manifests through food access. Ashton emphasises that the battle for universal access to nutritious food continues, but Haskins remains a beacon of ethical and sustainable capitalism. His legacy underscores the importance of corporate responsibility in addressing societal inequalities.
Prof John R Ashton, former north-west regional director of public health, recalls this collaboration as a testament to Haskins' willingness to embrace insights into the conditions of marginalised communities. The research funded by Haskins has contributed to ongoing discussions about poverty, food security, and social justice in the UK.
