Being Fairtrade

Why Fairtrade?

Fairtrade does what it says on the label; it guarantees a better deal to producers in the developing world. This means a stable price which covers their production costs, along with a premium that their organisation will be able to reinvest either in the business or social and environmental schemes among the wider community. Too many farmers in the developing world have to contend with fluctuating prices that may not even cover what it costs to produce their crop. So Fairtrade can make a big impact on their day-to-day life, and on their future and that of their family.

Charnwood Action for Fairtrade (CAFF)

Charnwood Action for Fairtrade and Charnwood Borough Council work together to promote Fairtrade and encourage local shops and cafes to stock Fairtrade. In 2006 Charnwood was awarded Fairtrade Borough Status for meeting the five goals below. An easy way to remember the goals is ‘The Five C's':

The 'Five C's'

1. Council - Resolution passed supporting Fairtrade and agreeing to serve Fairtrade products in meetings, offices and canteens. Visitors to the main council offices at Southfields Road, Loughborough Town Hall, or Charnwood Museum can purchase Fairtrade tea and coffee. If you can’t see please contact us.

2. Commerce (retail and catering) - Fairtrade products are readily available in the Charnwood's retail outlets (shops, supermarkets, newsagents and petrol stations) and served in local catering outlets (cafés, restaurants, pubs)

3. Community - Local workplaces and community organisations (places of worship, schools, universities, colleges and other community organisations) support Fairtrade and use Fairtrade products whenever possible.

4. Common Consensus - public support gained through media coverage and events to raise awareness and understanding of Fairtrade across the community

5. Captains (steering group) - A local Fairtrade steering group is convened to ensure the Fairtrade Town campaign continues to develop and gain new support.

How can you get involved?

Members of the action and steering groups are made up of local councillors, businesses, retailers and education centres. To run a campaign, acquire resources or products lists or for more information, please visit the Fairtrade Foundation.

We want to know about your Fairtrade events and activities. please contact us so we can publicise your achievements.

For tips for school or business action, please see below:

Fairtrade Workplace

Tea and coffee are two of the most important ingredients in any successful business. Fairtrade does what it says on the label; it guarantees a better deal to producers in the developing world so why not make the change to Fairtrade. Switching to Fairtrade also demonstrates your business values people and acting fairly. For further information about converting to Fairtrade contact Charnwood Action for Fairtrade (CAFF) or email charnwoodfairtrade@tiscali.co.uk.If you are food retailer or supplier, complete our Food Survey here to see how you can add Fairtrade products to your business.

Fairtrade Schools

The concept of fair trade fits beautifully into the key curriculum areas of Citizenship, Geography and Religious Studies, and allows students to learn about fairness, social justice and diversity. Why not Make Fairtrade foods available to staff and students, present an assembly or lesson on Fairtrade or set up a Fairtrade tuck shop selling Fairtrade chocolate, bananas and snack bars. For educational resources and product please contact the Fairtrade Foundation.