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4. RESULTS

4.1 LOCAL AUTHORITY SURVEY

4.1.1 Response rate

A total of 46 telephone interviews were conducted with local authority respondents from 31 of the 32 authorities. The respondent from the remaining local authority self-completed the questionnaire. In 15 of the authorities interviews were conducted with two respondents in order to cover both the operational and policy context, whereas in 15 areas one respondent answered questions from both these perspectives.

4.1.2 Other similar schemes

Respondents were asked if there were any similar schemes in their area which aimed to provide fruit/vegetables to pupils before the Free Fruit initiative was implemented. Two-thirds of local authorities (n=20) reported that they had had some sort of scheme running before the Free Fruit initiative. These varied from large, well established city wide schemes such as Fruit Plus which provided free fruit to all primary and nursery school children on a daily basis and Snack Attack which provided fruit to all primary classes three times a week, to a number of areas which introduced fruit into school tuck shops for a trial period or offered free fruit one day a week for a limited period.

Funding for these schemes came from a variety of sources including the Scottish Executive (Health Improvement Fund, Hungry for Success), Health Boards, Local authorities (Better Neighbourhood Services) and the New Opportunities Fund ( NOF).

The introduction of the Free Fruit Initiative affected schemes in a number of different ways. In some cases the funding which had been used previously to provide fruit to P1/P2 was used to extend the scheme to other primary years or groups, e.g. a scheme funded by NOF which previously only included some schools was extended to include other schools in the area. In another case, it allowed the local authority to expand and target their resources to areas of greatest need. In one area, the introduction of the scheme increased the number of days P1 and P2 pupils received fruit, from 1 day to 4 days. For the Snack Attack project it was said that free fruit was previously only available free of charge to those who received free school meals; since the introduction of the Free Fruit Initiative fruit was available free of charge to all pupils.

Some respondents reported that the introduction of the Free Fruit Initiative had not affected the local scheme either because the target group for their scheme was different or, for example, the fruit tuck shops continued to operate.

4.1.3 The operation of the free fruit initiative in different local authority areas

Respondents were asked a series of questions as to how the Free Fruit Initiative was currently run in their area. The first question in this series asked what percentage of primary, special, nursery and secondary schools had been covered by the initiative.

All authorities reported that the scheme had been implemented in 100% of their primary schools. (However, most recent figures published by the Scottish Executive suggest that four areas had not yet implemented the initiative in all of their primary schools.) A majority (n=23) said that they had also implemented the scheme in all the special schools in their area. One local authority had introduced the scheme into 75% of their special schools. Conflicting responses were given by the two respondents in two of the authorities, with responses ranging from 0% to 100% of special schools being involved. Of the remaining authorities, two had not introduced it into any of their special schools, a few areas stated that they did not have such schools in their area and one professional did not know whether the initiative had covered special schools.

It was stated that nursery schools in the majority of authorities (n=24) were not involved in the initiative. Seven respondents from seven different authorities reported that the Free Fruit Initiative had been introduced into their nursery schools. However in four of these authorities, in which more than one respondent answered questions, conflicting views were given with the other respondent saying that the scheme had not been introduced into the nursery schools. The respondent from the remaining authority did not know whether nursery schools were involved.

No local authority appeared to have implemented the scheme in secondary schools.

4.1.4 Entitlement to free fruit

In the current Scottish Executive Free Fruit initiative all pupils in P1 and P2 classes are entitled to free fruit in the different local authorities. In addition, local authority professionals stated that P3 pupils in composite P2/P3 classes also received free fruit in 13 of the areas (see Table 4.1). In one of these authorities funding from the 'healthy' tuck shop run by the school was used to pay for the additional fruit for the P3 pupils. In six local authority areas all children in schools with a small school roll received fruit and in another area all children up to 7 years of age were included. Respondents in two areas said that all of their primary schools gave free fruit to all pupils.

Table 4.1 Current entitlement to free fruit in primary schools and frequency of distribution

In the majority of local authorities (n=28) pupils were given one portion of fruit three times a week. In three authorities pupils received one portion of fruit five days a week (see Table 4.1).

4.1.5 Producers, suppliers and distribution of fruit

Respondents were asked who produced or supplied the fruit to schools in their area. Respondents in 9 local authority areas said that the school meals service was the supplier of fruit for the initiative and in 4 of these areas local suppliers of fruit were also involved. In the majority of areas (n=18) fruit was supplied by a local fruit or fresh produce wholesaler. A community food initiative and a housing association were involved in supplying fruit in two areas. In the remaining three areas, local shops such as Morrisons, the Co-op and a local greengrocer supplied the fruit for the initiative. Some authorities used a combination of suppliers. Only one respondent did not know who supplied the fruit for the initiative.

In nearly all cases the supplier of the fruit also distributed the fruit, although in seven authorities it was also mentioned that local authority transport was involved. Two local authorities who were supplied by the same company stated that another organisation was responsible for distributing the fruit to schools.

In the majority of local authority areas (n=26) the fruit supplier was chosen by the local authority alone (Table 4.2). In four areas, schools also had some input into the choice of supplier. Three of these were in rural and remote areas. In one area the primary schools alone chose who supplied their fruit. In the remaining area, one respondent reported that the local authority chose the fruit supplier but the other thought that the external contractor was responsible. Responses were almost identical when the professionals were asked who chose the fruit distributor in the area. The only difference was a respondent from a rural area who said that the fruit distributor was chosen by the local authority only, with schools not being involved in this choice.

Table 4.1 Choice of fruit supplier

4.1.6 Satisfaction with the free fruit initiative in local authorities

Respondents were asked if they were satisfied with quality and quantity of fruit delivered to schools in their area. The majority of authorities were very or quite satisfied with the quality of fruit delivered to them (Table 4.3).

Table 4.2 Satisfaction with quality of fruit delivered to schools

*in one of these areas there was a difference of opinion between the two respondents; one was quite satisfied, the other not very satisfied with quality.

Some authorities relied on feedback from head teachers, staff and parents as to the quality of fruit whilst other authorities have carried out more formal surveys/evaluations of the initiative:

"We implemented a survey throughout schools; feedback showed 88% said the quality was good/very good. Questionnaire survey organised by Education Department." Respondent 9A

"We have feedback from schools on a four weekly basis and we have very little problems with the quality of fruit." Respondent 29B

In some authorities it was said that there had been problems with the quality of fruit but, in most cases, when this was raised with the supplier the problems were resolved. Some authorities have also increased the price they pay for fruit in order to improve the quality.

"We have very good dialogue with them and they know what our requirements are and our standards. If we get a bad batch of fruit then it is picked up and immediately replaced within the hour" Respondent 19A

"We have had trouble with the quality of fruit delivered from X Fruit and Veg suppliers and have arranged to have a bag of fruit from Y once a week. We have upped the price from 12p per portion to 18p recently to try and get better quality of fruit coming in." Respondent 11B

Respondents from four authorities mentioned that the quality of the fruit was not consistent and another nine areas reported that they had problems with ripeness of the fruit delivered. Most of these said that the fruit delivered was not ripe enough and therefore could not be given to the children. A smaller number mentioned that some fruit was over ripe. Although some areas were able to save the unripe fruit until later in the week this was not an option for schools in all areas, presumably because of storage facilities and distribution patterns, and it had to be sent back to the supplier.

"Because we are rural we get a delivery once a week on Tuesdays, sometimes the bananas are green, pears unripe or strawberries soft. We phone them when we are unhappy and if possible get fruit uplifted or the catering staff have to swap the fruits and use later." Respondent 8B

One respondent stated that although they specified which fruit they wanted, the supplier sometimes changed the order if it was thought that the quality was not good enough or was not ready to eat. Respondents from several authorities mentioned that although they were not unhappy with the quality of the fruit they were currently supplied with they were looking at other potential suppliers to see if they could improve on quality.

Respondents in a majority of the local authorities (n=30) felt that the quantity of fruit delivered to the schools as part of the initiative was at least quite sufficient. In the remaining two authorities the two respondents had different opinions regarding the quantity of fruit delivered. In both cases one respondent felt it was quite sufficient but the other felt that it was not very sufficient.

Respondents were asked what type of fruits and vegetables were supplied to the schools in their area. A wide range of fruits was mentioned in each area (see Table 4.4) There was no information from one area.

Table 4.3 Fruit and vegetables supplied to schools

Apples, bananas, grapes, melon, oranges, pears and satsumas were supplied to most schools. A few local authorities supplied vegetables including carrots, peppers, celery, cucumber and, in one case, snap peas. Some authorities also have supplied more exotic fruits such as mango and star fruits. The school survey produced similar results (see p**), although there were some differences, such as fruit juice being supplied more frequently and cherry tomatoes less frequently than the local authority survey results would suggest.

When asked which fruits were the most popular grapes were mentioned by most authorities (n=24). Other popular fruits included melon (n=10 areas), bananas (n=9), apples (n=9) and strawberries (n=6). Although apples were supplied to schools in every authority only 9 areas mentioned them as being among the most popular fruits, with 2 of these specifically stating that red apples were popular. Those who stated that apples and bananas were popular added that these fruits were more familiar to children who were more likely to know them from home. Other fruits mentioned as being popular by one or two authorities included baby tomatoes, kiwi fruit, satsumas and fruit juice. On the whole, the school survey gave similar results.

When the respondents were asked their views for the popularity of these fruits most reported that fruits like grapes, melon and strawberries were sweet and easy to eat. The size of these fruits was also important in their popularity and larger fruits such as melons and apples were more appealing when cut up into a more manageable size. Packaging of fruits was also a factor mentioned by 2 authorities:

"The mixed bag of apple and grapes we do once a week is the most popular because it is cut up." Respondent 11A

"Bananas, kiwi fruit, grapes and melon, they are easy to eat and are all prepared in disposable packs." Respondent 8A

Fruits considered to be least popular included tomatoes (n=15 areas), oranges - particularly big oranges (n=11), apples - again depending on size (n=5) and carrots (n=4). Other unpopular fruits mentioned by one or two authorities included red peppers, vegetable sticks, pineapple, celery, melon, bananas, satsumas, peach, kiwi fruit, dried fruit, and anything that the children were not familiar with, such as peaches, pineapple and mango. Again, the results of the school survey support this, with cherry tomatoes perceived as being the least popular fruit among pupils (see p**).

It was reported that tomatoes were unpopular simply because children did not like them. The unpopularity of most of the other fruits cited above was due to the difficulty of eating them either in terms of preparation (eg. peeling oranges) or the size of the fruit. The mess created in peeling oranges or cutting up melon was also a factor in the lack of popularity of these fruits for some. Fruit with stones and pips also caused problems for some authorities.

"Apples, because they are too big, the kids only take a couple of bites and oranges because they are too difficult to peel." Respondent 21B

"Some children are too lazy to eat whole fruit, we tried quartering the apples to make them more appealing but they turned brown too quickly." Respondent 13B

"We tend not to use stoned fruit because of the safety issues, orange pips fall into that category." Respondent 25A

When asked whether they were satisfied with the variety of the fruit delivered to schools the majority of the authorities reported that they were at least very satisfied (n=29). Two authorities were not very satisfied with the variety of fruits delivered to schools in their area. One of these respondents simply wanted an increase in the range of fruits available whilst for the other respondent the problem with the limited range of fruits was more to do with the way the scheme was operationalised in that area. This procedure for distributing fruit was due to be changed in the following year. In the remaining local authority, the two respondents had differing views concerning the variety of fruit on offer.

"We are limited in the variety of what we can provide because of the way we organise the scheme. The fruit is delivered and washed by the Catering Services centrally on a Friday ready for delivery to schools on a Monday to be given out to the children on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. This means you cannot use fruit which needs to be cut up i.e. melons or pineapples or to be divided e.g. grapes. We can't use soft fruit either which might go off." Respondent 5A

Some authorities (n=5) reported that the lack of variety in fruits was a result of budget restrictions. A few respondents also reported other problems with the varieties provided.

"We have a dilemma of cost versus what they will actually eat, whole apples are cheaper than strawberries, strawberries are more popular and more expensive." Respondent 13B

"Sometimes the fruit supply may get a little repetitive and it's good to encourage children to eat a variety of different fruit." Respondent 3A

"We get a lot of apples and not a high frequency of other types of fruit."

Respondent 11A

Two authorities have tried to introduce a wider variety of fruits with variable success:

"We have tasting sessions and through this we introduce more exotic fruit and enlarge variety." Respondent 5A

"Since we have run the scheme we have tried a free fruit platter with more exotic fruits for the kids to try but they wouldn't take it." Respondent 11B

4.1.7. Satisfaction with fruit supply and distribution

The majority of local authorities (n=30) were at least quite satisfied with the performance of their fruit suppliers, with only two areas stating that they were not satisfied with their suppliers. One of these respondents did not specify why they were dissatisfied but said they were buying in " quality assurance measures". The two respondents from the other authority who were not satisfied with their supplier had several complaints about them:

"We have had problems with quality and hassle with late deliveries. It needs to be at the kitchens by 11 am - that hasn't always happened. We have run a day late; we aim to do it on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday but have sometimes and to do it on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday."

Respondent 11B

Another respondent from a rural local authority said that their biggest problem was maintaining supplies to smaller schools. Also, some area respondents, although they were largely satisfied with their supplier, did want to make changes to their arrangements and planned to do this by negotiating with the supplier either informally or when the contract was up for renewal:

"Some suppliers are reluctant to come out to an individual school with what is really a domestic volume of fruit. We have concern that we may struggle to maintain the supply at a realistic cost." Respondent 20A :

"The next round of tendering that goes out we are going to have to build more flexibility into the supply contract which will permit the supplier to take more advantage of seasonal fruit." Respondent 23A

Many respondents reported that they had good relationships with their supplier and that they were reliable and responded to any problems quickly. One respondent felt that their good relationship with their supplier was due to the fact that they were locally based.

Respondents were also asked how satisfied they were with the performance of their fruit distributors. In many cases the suppliers of fruit also distributed fruit to schools and therefore, not surprisingly, the level of satisfaction with the service was similar to that of the supplier. Respondents in 30 local authorities were either very satisfied or quite satisfied with the performance of their fruit distributor. There was no response from one authority and the professionals from the remaining authority reported that they were not very satisfied with their fruit distributor. However when asked why this was the respondent commented on the quality of the fruit distributed rather than distribution per se.

Two of the island authorities commented that adverse weather conditions did affect distribution of fruit to schools on some occasions and this meant that sometimes the schools did not receive fruit. Another mainland authority reported that more remote schools did not receive fruit at the most convenient time. A few other authorities had experienced distribution problems initially but these had been resolved.

Problem to outlying schools as they do not get their fruit until the afternoon and these schools would prefer to have the fruit for the morning.

Respondent 23A

It works quite well after a rocky start. Some difficulties with some schools but these have settled down. Respondent 32A

4.1.8 Evaluation of Free Fruit initiative in local areas

Respondents were asked whether they were evaluating the Free Fruit scheme in their area and if so, how they were conducting the evaluation. It was stated that the majority of authorities (n=25) were carrying out some form of evaluation of the scheme. Four authorities reported that they were not and in the remaining three authorities there was a difference of opinion between the two respondents as to whether they were carrying out any evaluation activities or not.

Most of those who were conducting a local evaluation said that were doing this by means of a questionnaire survey (n=14). Local authority catering and education services and health promotion departments within health boards were all mentioned as being involved in carrying out evaluations. In one case an independent consultant was employed to conduct the evaluation. Teaching and catering staff as well as parents and pupils were surveyed. Several respondents mentioned that their scheme was being evaluated as part of Hungry for Success. Ongoing consultation and feedback from school staff and pupils were also used to evaluate the initiative in some local authority areas. Monitoring data on deliveries of fruit to schools and fruit returned from kitchens were mentioned by some respondents as a means of monitoring the initiative in some areas. However, it is very difficult to ascertain from these data the nature of the evaluations conducted, and the quality of research evidence being gathered locally. It is likely that both formal and anecdotal evidence was being used to support the view expressed by local authority respondents that most areas were evaluating the initiative.

Schools were sent two questionnaires, one for the teachers and one for the children. Teachers were asked their views and children needed to tick 'smiley face' boxes. Respondent 20A

We are working with Health Promotion and with schools, we have sent out an extensive questionnaire to schools and we make regular visits which are on-going. Respondent 15A

Not officially evaluating this initiative. We are evaluating Hungry for Success and the Free Fruit initiative can be part of that. Respondent 17A

Yes, through the Health Board and it is now the remit of the Hungry for Success Development Officer to evaluate the Free Fruit initiative. She will be going out to schools to speak to pupils, teachers and catering staff. Respondent 27A

4.1.9 Policy and Guidance from Scottish Executive

In the guidance issued to local authorities to implement the scheme they were asked to consider local sources of fruit, the variety, quality and presentation of fruit and the methods employed to minimise wastage. This next section presents the local authority respondents' experiences of the issues covered by this guidance.

Selection of fruit suppliers

Respondents were asked why they chose the organisation they did to supply fruit and vegetables for the scheme. Most of the authorities reported that they chose the supplier for one of three main reasons:

• That they were already the school meals contractor for the authority (n=23)
• That they were already supplying fruit to schools in the area (n=2)
• That they won the contract to supply fruit through a tendering process (n=2)

Therefore, most of the areas were being supplied with fruit by the school meals contractors.

Three authorities reported that there was only one supplier in the area. Two of these authorities were Island authorities. The third authority reported that the supplier was ' the only one who could guarantee the volume'. Another authority chose their supplier because it was local . In the remaining authority it was said that some of their schools used the school meal service while other schools in the area used local suppliers. Table 4.5 demonstrates that most suppliers were locally-based.

Table 4.4 Where fruit supplier based

Data missing for 1 area

Previous experience with working with the contractor as well as the contractor's food handling experience were important factors in the choice of supplier. Those who were not using the existing school meals supplier chose their fruit supplier for similar reasons. However, one authority chose their non-school meals supplier through a tendering process.

"X Contract chosen because staff are already trained (hygiene etc) mainly with chopped fruit, presentation and their experience of distribution through school meals service." Respondent 3A

"Because they were local suppliers, they already supplied to the Local authority and they are the local supplier." Respondent 30A

"The suppliers were on the basis of tender, looking at quality and price."

Respondent 6A

Provision of seasonal fruit

All but one of the authorities reported that where possible they supplied seasonal fruit and vegetables. The only authority that did not supply seasonal fruit and vegetables said that the fruits they supplied were available all year round. The seasonal fruits were mainly limited to strawberries in summer and satsumas in winter. However berry fruits, such as raspberries, kiwi fruits, melons, peaches and nectarines were also mentioned by a few authorities as fruits supplied when in season. Several respondents mentioned that their supplier alerted them to offers on seasonal fruit which helped them to reduce costs as well. One local authority commented that they would like their supplier to have more flexibility so that they could take advantage of seasonal fruit.

"We have updates from the supplier to tell us what is in season or products that are value for money, we then adjust our monthly rota." Respondent 21A

"The Catering Department orders the fruit that they want, we would like the supplier to have more flexibility so that in season fruit could be used more." Respondent 23A

Respondents from the majority of authorities (n=21) reported that they did not experience any problems in providing seasonal fruit and vegetables. Respondents from eight areas said they did experience difficulties in providing seasonal fruit and five of these cited cost as the problem. This is at odds with some of the responses to the previous question above which mentioned that providing seasonal fruit and vegetables helped reduce costs.

"Cost sometimes makes it difficult for us to purchase good seasonal fruit." Respondent 17A

"Need to balance cost, everything has to be done within the budget." Respondent 5B

Those who had difficulties in providing seasonal fruit and vegetables due to cost overcame these difficulties in a number of ways, including supplying soft fruit if it could be bought for a 'good' price, providing frozen fruit and fruit juices and buying other cheaper fruit to allow more expensive seasonal fruit to be purchased.

"We can get more expensive fruit which is in season if other seasonal fruit e.g. apples are becoming cheaper. We can juggle the price around." Respondent 12A

Professionals in two other authorities stated that that there had been a few problems with storage when providing seasonal fruit, particularly in relation to more perishable fruit (presumably soft fruit). However one of these authorities reported that storage problems had been resolved and the other was addressing the problem by giving schools information on time limits for storage of fruit. Two island communities reported that providing fruit was a problem all year round.

Provision of organic fruit

The majority of authorities did not supply organic fruit and vegetables and most of these (n=24) cited the higher cost and/or the lack of availability of organic produce as obstacles to its provision. Some of these authorities had actively considered using organic fruit whereas others had not. Three authorities did supply "a low percentage" of organic fruit but in two of these authorities this was limited to one or two schools in their area. It was said in two areas that they were considering introducing organic fruit.

"At the time we didn't consider it, I think it might be difficult for the suppliers to source at the level and volume we would require and it would be price sensitive." Respondent 8A

"We have not looked at that specifically yet, no demand for it has been raised. It is pricier and the budget is already inadequate for the initiative." Respondent 11A

"Possibly something we haven't considered. The budget is fairly tight, we are working to 12-14 pence a portion, I don't think organic fruit would come into that." Respondent 21B

"Looking at increasing the amount of organic food in schools. We are looking to identify 'organic schools' where food is predominately organic. We discussed this at the last implementation group meeting." Respondent 22A

Preparation of fruit

Respondents were asked if the fruit supplied to their schools was prepared in any way. Only professionals in two authorities reported that they did not prepare fruit in some way. In one of these areas the fruit was supplied pre-washed; in the other area the fruit was washed in school. In both these areas children were given whole fruits. In all other areas at least some of the fruit was prepared in some way. This included washing the fruit, fruits such as melons, apples etc being chopped or sliced, oranges being quartered, grapes being de-stalked, strawberries being de-hulled, etc. Fruit was then often portioned in small pots or dishes and, in some cases, bagged. Preparing the fruit in this way made it more attractive to the kids and easier for them to eat.

"Yes, we have 2oz pots to hand out to the children. Melon will be cut into wedges or pieces, depending on what the school prefers, strawberries are washed and hulled, grapes are washed and destalked and all put into pots. Oranges are quartered and pineapple is chopped." Respondent 8B

"Yes we spend a lot of time preparing fruit to make it as attractive to the children e.g. strawberries are cut up and put into pots, cling filmed with a spoon, similarly grapes are portioned." Respondent 13B

In most authorities it was said that fruit and vegetables were prepared in school by school catering staff. The respondents added that in schools without kitchens fruit was prepared by other school kitchens in the authority area and then delivered to the schools, in a few cases by the fruit supplier. In one local authority area it was stated that all fruit preparation was carried out by the fruit supplier:

"Yes, sometimes fruit is prepared by Catering Staff and delivered to the schools from main kitchens, others it is prepared within our school kitchens." Respondent 14A

"No, we have tried to cause minimum inconvenience to schools, that is part of our success, any portioning that is needed to be done i.e. grapes, that is done by the supplier." Respondent 25A

Minimising food miles

Respondents were asked what guidance they had been given to ensure that the food miles of the fruit provided to schools were minimised. Almost all of the local authority respondents reported that they had received no guidance, were not aware of any guidance or were not sure if they had been given any guidance regarding minimising the 'food miles' of the fruit provided. Nevertheless respondents from one of these areas were aware of local guidance relating to this issue. Another two respondents mentioned that they used local suppliers which helped in cutting down food miles. Two local authority professionals felt they could do little to reduce food miles.

"Don't know of any guidance but adhere to Council's strategies concerning supply and distribution 'food miles'. Respondent 5A

"No official guidance given but we look at this issue and use local suppliers where necessary." Respondent 14A

"Our fruit comes up from the Central belt, that's where the markets are. We are aware of it but we are not sitting in the middle of the city."

Respondent 20B

Respondents from the two remaining authorities were aware of guidance issued by the Scottish Executive on this matter. Neither respondent was able to say how the guidance had been implemented although one did say that they took the guidance into consideration when implementing the scheme.

Wastage of fruit

When asked what percentage of the fruit and vegetables used as part of the initiative within schools ended up as waste estimates varied from 0% to 40%, with one respondent stating that 60% of vegetables in some schools were being wasted. Overall just under one-half of authorities (n=15) said there was very little wastage of fruit. It was said in a further 9 authorities that 20% or less of the fruit was wasted. However, in some authorities respondents found it difficult to give an overall estimate for the area saying that it varied very much from school to school.

"In some schools the waste is as high as 20-30%, whereas in other schools it's very low… and some have no waste at all." Respondent 19B

"Varies from school to school and the type of fruit offered. Some schools said that approximately 60% of veg was being wasted, some schools much lower."

Respondent 20A

As with guidance on food miles very few authorities had received or were aware of guidance on reducing levels of 'wastage' of fruit. Several authorities had introduced their own guidance and measures to reduce waste. These included:

• Not buying too much fruit
• Reducing orders for fruit if a lot of children are off due to illness or on school trips etc.
• Providing fruit which the children like so less likely to leave or discard
• Encouraging children to eat the fruit in the classroom rather than in the playground where it could be wasted
• Giving left over fruit to other children either in class or at school meals or to take home
• Using left over fruit to make fruit smoothies
• Sending some left over fruit goes to the staff room
• Composting the waste or giving left over fruit to animals.

The majority of authorities did not think that wastage of fruit was a problem for most schools. Some had experienced a problem when the scheme was first introduced but had dealt with this.

"Fruit not used goes into fruit desserts, wastage is so minimal it's hardly worthy of consideration." Respondent 23A

"No, because by trial and error we try and meet the needs of the children and hopefully give them what they want to eat." Respondent 32B

When asked if and how the level of wastage was monitored many respondents said they did not do this or they were unclear whether this was done in their authority. Those that reported that they did monitor wastage did this in a number of different ways. For some this was done quite informally, relying on feedback from teaching and/or catering staff in schools, or by ascertaining what fruit is returned to the supplier. Other authorities carried out more formal surveys or quarterly reviews .

"By questionnaires going out to schools, findings of questionnaires state 94% of fruit supplied is being consumed." Respondent 9A

"Only by what is returned in the box and what the schools tell us. We have one school where nothing goes down particularly well but we still feel that we need to send that fruit." Respondent 21B

"Through the uptake at site base level. The Catering Managers return every four weeks a report on what has been delivered and what has been returned, we adjust accordingly." Respondent 29B

Links with school meals

Respondents were asked how the Free Fruit Initiative linked with the school meals service. Respondents from 4 authorities reported that the initiative did not link with the school meals service at all. Respondents from a fifth authority said there was no link 'other than preparation'. However this was the same link that respondents from several other authorities mentioned:

"Links up closely with school meals service as they prepare, present and in some cases serve out the fruit." Respondent 4A

The majority of authorities did report some link with their school meals service. For some authorities the provider of the school meals service also provided the fruit for the initiative. Other respondents reported that the catering service operated the initiative in their schools. In other local authority areas the catering service was reported to be involved in a number of ways, from simply ordering the fruit for the initiative, through preparing fruit and in some cases distributing the fruit.

"The Catering Service operates the system for us and the Free Fruit Initiative complements the Catering Service's Health Eating policy." Respondent 6A

"The School Meals service helps with providing many schools with fruit initiative. Links closely, distribution and supply." Respondent 14A

Several authority professionals reported that the Free Fruit initiative had positive effects on choices made by children at school lunches.

"It encourages the uptake of fruit by the children; they know what it tastes like and are more likely to take fruit with their meal. We have seen a big difference in the uptake of fruit." Respondent 28A

Other complementary schemes

When asked whether the Fruit in School initiative complemented any other schemes in their local authority area looking at diet and health, respondents from three-quarters of the authorities (n=24) mentioned the Hungry for Success Initiative. They felt that the two initiatives helped with the whole school approach to healthy eating.

"All schemes are working well and Fresh Fruit initiative links well with them. The uptake of fruit is growing and fruit is becoming a normal part of children's diet." Respondent 17A

Many respondents stated that they had either introduced healthy tuck shops into their schools or that tuck shops were now selling more fruit. The perception was that the free fruit initiative had helped break down the barriers for some children and encouraged them to eat more fruit. The free fruit initiative also complemented other schemes in local authority areas including Health Promoting Schools initiative, the provision of drinking water in schools, oral hygiene, school milk projects, breakfast clubs and after school clubs. Several respondents also mentioned that the Free Fruit initiative, as well as other healthy eating initiatives, were also being linked to the curriculum.

"Fruit consumption is popular, children are willing to try out different tastes, tuck shops are selling more fruit and barriers are being broken down." Respondent 9A

"It's a natural part of Health Promoting Schools, the Hungry for Success and particularly the drive to have healthy tuck shops. The free fruit scheme has been the springboard for developing healthy tuck shops. Respondent 24A

"It has enabled teachers to link fruit with curriculum within the 5-14 health guidelines, integrating messages into lessons." Respondent 25A

4.1.10 Problems encountered by initiative

None of the respondents reported any major problems with the initiative in their area. Some had experienced problems in the initial stages of setting up the scheme but had largely overcome these.

The difficulty mentioned most frequently by respondents was the time teachers had to spend on administering the initiative and the consequent loss of class time with the children. In some areas there was initially some resistance from teaching staff to the scheme for this reason. The problem was exacerbated in the view of some respondents by the recommendation that the fruit should be eaten in the classroom rather than in the playground. Time was also a problem in authorities where the catering staff members were involved in the initiative.

"We asked that fruit should be eaten in class, this did not always please the teachers as it often took away teaching time in class." Respondent 9A

"There were difficulties with some teachers seeing it as taking time out of class." Respondent 13A

"The first two months was difficult as it was something that people thought that they didn't have time to do. The catering staff had to find time to prepare and deliver the fruit into the class room and the school had to find to incorporate it into lessons. Time has been the biggest issue. Respondent 21B

To help address the perceived lack of time school staff had to implement the initiative, respondents said they had to liaise with school staff - with head teachers and teachers - to convince them of the value of the initiative:

"Teachers accepted the importance of children being encouraged to eat fruit in the class room and not in the playground. Respondent 9A

"It was a lot of hard work to start with, I needed to pre-empt problems... I had frequent meetings with Head Teachers. There is no denying it's a workload issue with all the changes with McCrone. A lot of time was spent listening to the concerns of staff." Respondent 31A

Other difficulties experienced by some authorities included:

• Costs of initiative - funding available not enough to cover costs
• Delivery of fruit to all schools, sometimes over large geographical areas
• Problems with composite P2/P3 classes
• Initial problems with finding reliable supplier(s).

Some of the authorities that experienced problems with cost of the initiative have subsidised it with money from their Hungry for Success budget (see below). Those that had problems with delivery have solved these problems in a variety of ways. One authority improved the packaging of the fruit, whereas another transferred responsibility for preparing the fruit from the supply company to catering staff within schools. In another authority with distribution problems the children receive the fruit in the afternoon rather than the morning. One large urban area which had to cope with the rapid expansion of the fruit scheme solved their problem by helping the company that delivered the fruit to gain access to more vans.

4.1.11 Facilitating factors

The willingness, enthusiasm and commitment of both teaching and catering staff involved with the initiative were mentioned most frequently as the factors which facilitated the running of the initiative. The experience of catering staff and the existing school meal providers also greatly assisted the development of the initiative particularly with the preparation and distribution of fruit.

"The organisation by Catering Services, it's made it easier to get it up and running as they have all the services in place." Respondent 19B

"Support from Head teachers, staff and from Janitors to deliver it." Respondent 22A

"Determination by everyone to make it work. The staff in schools who have embraced the initiative. It's part and parcel of life now." Respondent 29A

Others involved in the initiative, such as fruit suppliers, were also thought to contribute to the success of the initiative. Co-operation and partnership working between various council departments such as the catering services and education were also mentioned as factors in assisting the initiative. Funding was mentioned by a few respondents as being vital to the implementation of the initiative. The existence of Hungry for Success and the publicity surrounding it and healthy eating in general was considered by some to have assisted the introduction and acceptance of the free fruit initiative.

"It wouldn't have come about without the resources from the Executive, resources and funding were absolutely key." Respondent 25A

"Publicity that fruit is good for you and all the publicity that we have had from the Scottish Executive, 'Hungry for success' has facilitated it as well." Respondent 23B

4.1.12 Usefulness of Guidance from the Scottish Executive

The majority of authorities (n=26) thought that the guidance provided by the Scottish Executive was very useful or quite useful. Two authorities thought it was not very useful and respondents from three authorities were split on their views of the guidance ( quite useful versus not very useful). Respondents in one area were not able to give a view on the usefulness of the guidance. Further probing on this question revealed that many respondents found the guidance clear, concise and helpful particularly when they were setting up the initiative.

"Very clear, it was essential at the start but have not had to pick it up and refer to it once the scheme was running. It was invaluable at the beginning." Respondent 22A

There was criticism from respondents in some authorities, particularly those in rural areas, who felt that the guidance did not meet the needs in their locality. However, others said that they were able to adapt the guidance to suit their needs. There was criticism too from one respondent who thought the guidance was too prescriptive, although it should be noted that several other professionals disagreed with this view. One respondent felt there needed to be more guidance on portion size. Another suggested that it would have been useful to have a leaflet for parents about the initiative as there had been for Hungry for Success.

"Brilliant if you are sitting in the central belt like any other guidance that comes out but not very good if you are sitting in a semi rural area… It does not relate to the needs of anyone outwith the central belt of Scotland." Respondent 20B

"It is helpful but we have changed parts to make it fit in with our own guidance procedures." Respondent 15A

"It gave some guidance, it was too prescriptive i.e. fruit to be eaten in the class room, schools get very uptight about this." Respondent 6A

"They were fairly useful, we decided what would work best for our Authority within the guidelines were set. They were not prescriptive." Respondent 32B

Guidance notes for schools

Respondents were asked if schools in their local authority areas were given any guidance notes in relation to fruit hygiene, distribution in schools, etc.

Some authorities did provide schools with guidance, mostly focusing on fruit handling and food hygiene. In some areas guidance on the storage of fruit was also mentioned. Advice on hand washing for both staff and pupils was also included in some areas. Some areas had previously issued guidance in connection with other fruit schemes in their area and in one area this built on previous training that teachers had received. In some authorities where catering staff were involved in preparation of fruit guidance was not given out to schools as the catering staff members were already trained in hygiene and fruit handling.

"We produced a Fruit File Pack which provided information about how to handle fruit in schools, gave advice about hygiene, food handling and safety issues." Respondent 12A

"Within the schools, the staff have undertaken food hygiene courses in preparation of the scheme, also the structure was mainly in place as the staff do baking etc with the children." Respondent 24A

4.1.13 Costs of free fruit initiative

Respondents were asked to outline the costs of running the scheme in their area, to separate out elements of this into staff and equipment costs and to indicate whether they thought the money provided by the Scottish Executive had been sufficient to run the scheme. Almost every local authority area was able to provide cost data for the operationalisation of the free fruit initiative. However, in a number of areas it was stated that the costs provided were approximate only. Also, several respondents gave costs incurred by the scheme in the current and preceding years, and others identified the Scottish Executive component and gave an indication of the top-up cost met by the local authority.

Given the very different areas covered by the local authorities, costs ranged from about £12K to £1000K. In terms of identifying staff and equipment as well as other set-up costs, some respondents were able to give quite a detailed breakdown of figures, whereas others were able to say whether additional costs above the Scottish Executive allocation were incurred, but found it difficult to state what they actually were. In areas in which funding was thought to be sufficient already (see below), it was often said that there had been additional costs at the outset of the initiative, but once the initial outlay had been met costs had reduced or stabilised in the following years.

Table 4.6 Costs provided by Scottish Executive sufficient?

*total does not add up to 32 as respondents from the same area chose different options.

Table 1.6 shows that the majority of local authorities thought that the funding provided by the Scottish Executive was at least quite sufficient to run the initiatives in their schools. However, at least 12 local authorities perceived that this was not the case, although it is difficult to give precise local authority figures as in eight areas with two respondents different views were expressed. Although in most of these instances the second view was a "don't know", in three areas the responses were different combinations from the options in Table 1.6, and in one case ranged from "quite sufficient" to "not sufficient at all". In a number of cases local authority respondents argued that Healthy for Success monies had been used to help subsidise the free fruit initiative. Other examples were given of shortfalls, or what could be achieved with even more funding, for example, by extending the types of fruit supplied to schools. Examples of these open-ended comments are included below.

Yes, some staff had to be given extra hours, don't know what proportion… It was not sufficient in the first year and in the second year we obtained extra money. If we had extra money again, we could extend the range of fruit. Respondent 1A

The original budget of £X meant under 16 pence per pupil, which is insufficient to buy a good range of high quality fruit and to cover extra labour costs in preparation. We have subsidised it using money from the Hungry for Success subsidy. Respondent 11A

…We spent £500 in the first year on schools who did not have any units. Twenty five percent of funding pays catering staff and 75 percent pays for fruit… Do not have quite enough funding because of composite classes and maintaining seasonal variety, it would be good to get more money. Respondent 17A

4.1.14 Impact on fruit consumption and healthy eating

The respondents were asked if they thought the free fruit scheme had increased fruit consumption among pupils attending primary schools in their local authority areas. Almost all (n=45) of the respondents said that fruit consumption had increased, with only two professionals stating that there was no evidence for such an increase. It should be noted that both of these respondents represented authorities in which another individual indicated that fruit consumption had increased among pupils.

Those who reported an increase in fruit consumption gave a number of reasons to support their claim. Several respondents said that the results of formal evaluations of the initiative in the local schools demonstrated an increase in fruit consumption. In addition, it was stated that feedback received from school staff, parents and pupils was very positive and again supported the view that more fruit was being consumed. Related to this, it was also pointed out that there was an increased demand for fruit and vegetables from school tuck shops and for school lunches, although a few respondents also argued that this might be due to other initiatives, and not solely the free fruit scheme. A minority of the professionals also based their views on direct observations they made when on school visits. Two respondents reported that any fruit consumption was an increase in certain schools, the base level of consumption being so low or non-existent. The two professionals who argued that consumption had not increased thought that sales of fruit within the dining room remained the same and that pupils had become bored with the scheme.

We have had more requests from schools as a result to change to SNAG tuck provision, parents have also feedback when they have been supermarket shopping that their children have been asking to put fruit into their trolleys. Respondent 8A

We have to talk the kids into eating the fruit, there will be some eating it who might not at home but it has not increased sales of fruit from the dining room. Respondent 11B

The canteens now order considerably more fruit and veg. Respondent 19B

When we go out and about in the schools, talking to catering staff, pupils and teachers there is no doubt that fruit consumption has gone up. On days that fresh fruit is offered, unhealthy play piece is not brought in, on days that free fruit is offered there's definitely a number of children that bring in their own fruit. Respondent 23A

70% of schools noticed an increase of children eating more fruit as the initiative progressed. 53% put this down to the influence of their peers, 90% found at least the children were prepared to try the fruit. Respondent 30A

The question of whether the free fruit initiative also had a role in promoting healthy eating more generally in school pupils was also put to the local authority professionals. Only one respondent perceived that the initiative had no such role - this professional had previously argued that fruit consumption had not increased in pupils attending schools. Every other respondent thought that the initiative did have this wider role, although many of the reasons overlapped with the ones described above. For example, the fact that fruit consumption and demand had increased within schools, and that there had been an impact on pupils' snacking, as well as food consumption as part of school lunches, was viewed as demonstrating an impact on more general eating habits. In general, the consensus was that awareness of fruit and its relationship to healthy eating had increased, pupils who had never tried fruit or were only aware of a limited range of types were enjoying new tastes, links with the curriculum and health promoting schools had been forged, and the combined impact with other related initiatives, such as Hungry for Success as a whole, was changing the eating habits of children for the better.

It helps develop awareness and breaks down bad eating habits. Playtime is now not full of crisps and chocolate. It also means that some children who do not usually eat fruit now have it made available to them. Respondent 4A

This has been a wonderful initiative and goes a long way to help promote the idea of healthy eating. Respondent 17A

Not on its own but as part of the Hungry for Success Initiative. Eating an additional piece of fruit is not a big enough change. Whilst eating a piece of fruit is valuable, children need to understand that they need to change their habits in other areas in reducing sugar and fat that they eat. Respondent 20A

Absolutely, it raises the profile of fruit, it raises the opportunity for education in its broadest sense around healthy eating and the 'five a day' message. Respondent 25A

It has the potential for quite a big role here. The children get to taste the fruit and if that is linked into the curriculum, teaching about healthy eating, balanced diet and fruit being an important part of that… you would hope would have an effect… As long as there is some sort of progression, as long as you don't try something for a short period of time and then it disappears. Progression through Hungry for Success. Respondent 28B

4.1.15 Perception of success and future of initiative

Table 1.7 demonstrates that two-thirds of the local authorities rated the free fruit initiative as being very successful. Professionals in 7 areas stated that the scheme had been quite successful. In four other areas the two respondents gave different opinions, although in three of these cases they still said that the initiative had been either very or quite successful. Only one of the 47 respondents said that the initiative had not been successful at all - this person had already suggested that fruit consumption had not increased and that there had been no effect on healthy eating in general as a result of the scheme.

Table 4.7 Perceived success of initiative?

*In 4 areas two respondents picked different options

Those who suggested that the initiative was very or quite successful tended to give similar views as to those expressed in section 4.1.14. Therefore, the increased fruit consumption and positive impact on healthy eating overall, ascertained by formal evaluation as well as more informal feedback from staff, pupils and parents, and more anecdotal evidence, were thought to be great successes for the initiative. A few of the respondents who reported that the initiative was quite successful spoke of certain difficulties or negative features that they hoped they would overcome, such as the quality of fruit or its preparation, as well as the fact that it should be extended to cover more pupils. Other suggested modifications for the initiative were given, but these are covered in more detail below. The one individual who said that the scheme had not been successful added that staff resented the time they had to spend on fruit distribution and that the children were bored by the initiative.

Schools and pupils see it as part of their day, it is a pity it is only three days a week for P1-2. Respondent 8A

It's causing resentment in the teaching staff because they don't have enough time to give out fruit. The children are getting fed up with it and it's too tightly ring fenced. Too narrowly targeted. Respondent 20B

Children love it and look forward to it. The schools are using it as a health promotion tool in the curriculum. While eating the fruit they discuss healthy eating in general. Oral Health feel that the oral health in P1 & P2 has improved but this is anecdotal, maybe because less sweets are being eaten at break. Respondent 26A

It's been one of the most successful initiatives that we have had from the Scottish Executive. We had full funding for it. Respondent 27A

The 47 local authority respondents, including the individual who had expressed more negative views above, thought that the free fruit initiative should continue to run in their areas in the future. Again, when the respondents were asked to expand on this, there was a fair bit of repetition with views outlined above. The fact that the initiative was thought to impact favourably on the diets of young primary school-aged children, and would then have the capacity to produce health benefits for future generations, in combination with other initiatives, was cited. It was stressed that the initiative had been very successful, should not be stopped, or have its funding cut. As above, most areas wanted the scheme to be extended to cover more pupils or more days of the week. Again, it was argued that the initiative was one of the best to be introduced by the Scottish Executive.

It has been successful in encouraging children to eat and try new fruits. Some never see fruit anywhere else. Respondent 11A

Absolutely, the funding helps and we need that funding so we don't have to raid any other money. If the funding disappeared, I would look at ways to fund the scheme by other means. Respondent 22A

We have areas of very high deprivation and in those areas, the children are benefiting greatly, even in areas from middle class backgrounds the children are eating more fruit in school than they would at home. Respondent 29A

Absolutely. It supports families and young people to make good choices. I think that it is one of the most positive Scottish Executive initiatives and should be encouraged throughout. Respondent 32A

4.1.16 Changes to Free Fruit initiative

Respondents were asked what changes they would like to see in the operation of the initiative if it was to continue. A few respondents (n=6) were content with the initiative as it was and did not want any changes to the way the scheme operated. However the majority of respondents were able to suggest some changes they would like to see in the initiative. The most frequently mentioned change (n=27) was an expansion of the initiative so that children received fruit on 5 days a week and/or that children in more or all primary years were included in the initiative. Several respondents also mentioned extending the scheme to include nursery schools and one respondent wanted to see the initiative expanded into secondary schools. These views were supported by school staff in the school survey.

"I would like it to happen on a daily basis and extend it throughout the primary school years." Respondent 2B

"Expand it to a blanket five days a week. Fruit into nurseries, we already offer fruit but there is a parental contribution, it is not free fruit."

Respondent 24A

One respondent was in favour of expansion of the initiative but suggested that the benefits of the scheme should be demonstrated before it was rolled out further. Another individual felt that the local authority had had limited success in linking the initiative with the school curriculum and explaining the value of the initiative to the children. It was thought that showing the children whole fruit rather than pieces of fruit would help:

"Whole fruit will help, if a whole piece of fruit comes into the class it can be shown what it looks like rather than it appearing sliced in a plastic tray. This year we are targeting this as a priority. It's important that they not only eat the fruit but look at other aspects of their eating." Respondent 20A

Other suggestions for changes to the initiative, suggested by a minority of respondents, included:

• An increase in the variety of fruit offered
• An increase in portion size
• Encouraging children to be involved in fruit preparation
• Introducing prepared fruit to save on labour costs
• Money being made available to allow teachers to eat the fruit with the children so that it becomes a 'whole class activity'

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