Doncaster residents present 'Manifestos for Change' prioritising health

Local families are set to see a shift in public policy as the Doncaster Citizens’ Jury demands stricter controls on harmful industries to protect resident wellbeing.

Doncaster residents have taken a stand against the influence of "harmful industries" by presenting a series of manifestos to local leaders. The move follows several workshops where a Citizens' Jury weighed evidence on how the tobacco, alcohol, and unhealthy food sectors impact community wellbeing. On Saturday 7 February, these residents shared their findings with Mayor Ros Jones and local MPs to drive future policy changes.

Recommendations from the Doncaster Citizens’ Jury

The Jurors reached a consensus on several ‘manifestos for change’ aimed at making the city a healthier place. Key demands included making healthy food more affordable and implementing stricter restrictions on the advertising of alcohol, vapes, and junk food. The Jury also insisted that health policy must be shielded from industry involvement and financial interests.

A Doncaster resident and Citizens’ Juror said: “People do care about these issues, and it really should be focused on a lot more. Whether it is legislation at a national level, or at a local level, things have to change really for peoples’ health and wellbeing.”

Council response to resident manifestos

Councillor James Church, Portfolio Holder for Public Health at City of Doncaster Council, welcomed the findings. He said: "By hearing directly from our residents, we’ve gained a greater understanding of how harmful industries impact the daily lives and long-term wellbeing of people across our city." Church confirmed that the recommendations would help shape evidence-based actions rooted in community priorities.

Pushing back against corporate influence

Director of Public Health, Rachael Leslie, noted that residents are being "targeted by persistent marketing" that prioritises profit over health. She said: "It is time to protect our city from national corporations and large-scale industries that prioritise profit without regard to the health and wellbeing of Doncaster families." Leslie added that the unique format of the Citizens' Jury empowers local people to help the council "push back."

Shaping the future of Doncaster

The findings of the Doncaster Citizens’ Jury will now influence local authority plans and be used to lobby the UK government for higher standards. By involving researchers and local representatives, the council aims to ensure that the city's environment supports healthy choices. Jurors remained optimistic, reflecting that "change can happen" when the community is given a seat at the table.

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