Rutland is keeping its Fairtrade County status going strong into a third decade, thanks to the hard work of volunteers and shoppers.

Rutland is keeping its Fairtrade County status going strong into a third decade, thanks to the hard work of volunteers and shoppers. 

Fair Trade Day Oakham Castle Rutland With Oakham Mayor 2010 Sharon Spencer and Rutland Fairtrade Forum chair David Lewis

At a recent ceremony in Oakham, Andrew Brown, the chairman of Rutland County Council, accepted the county’s new Fairtrade County certificate. 

This accomplishment follows a successful push by the Rutland Fairtrade Forum, a grassroots group that collaborates with local businesses, churches, schools, and community groups to promote Fairtrade, which ensures better prices and conditions for farmers and workers in developing countries.

The Fairtrade County certificate, presented by the national Fairtrade Foundation, is something that needs to be renewed every five years. Rutland first earned its Fairtrade status back in 2007, making it only the second county in the UK to achieve this honour.

David Lewis, the chairperson of the Rutland Fairtrade Forum, noted how crucial the county council’s support was during this renewal. He expressed gratitude towards community groups, churches, and schools that back Fairtrade and everyone who helps by picking Fairtrade products from local shops. Lewis pointed out that it’s great to see how people in the area understand that making small adjustments in their shopping habits can have a huge impact, aiding growers and producers worldwide in their efforts to lift themselves out of poverty.