We are an alliance of like-minded groups, all of which are promoting Fairtrade and Trade Justice around the county. We were formed in January 2004 at a meeting of campaigners in Ambleside. We have meetings twice a year, open to all campaigners in the county, for learning and for sharing news, plans and good practice.
    We know the Network has been very important in helping new groups to grow, older groups to be invigorated, and wheels not to be re-invented. We also believe that the Network has been a key factor in getting Fairtrade County Status for Cumbria.
    There are currently 17 Fairtrade cities, towns, villages or zones in Cumbria (more than in any other county) with more on the way.
    The Network is led by a Steering Group which is elected at the AGM in January and which meets bi-monthly.

Our aims are:
  • to promote the concept and to increase the awareness of Fairtrade in Cumbria;
  • to promote the buying, selling, serving and use of Fairtrade products within the county;
  • to alleviate poverty by campaigning for a fair system of international trade.

    Since the passing of a strong motion in support of Fairtrade at the County Council Meeting on 17th November, the Steering Committee is working closely with County Council officials to help implement the resolution.
    The award of Fairtrade County status was made by George Alagiah, Patron of the Fairtrade Foundation and BBC News Presenter, at Keswick School on 11th March, 2006.

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