Targets give focus to the broad objectives of your policy. They lay down timelines and specific achievements. e.g If the objective is 'use produce from Certified Organic sources where feasible', targets may be:
'Investigate local suppliers and choose one within next 3 months', or
'Buy 10% of vegetables Certified Organic review after first 6 months.

Targets enable people to see what is going on and that your organisation is aiming to meet its objectives.

Targets are milestones that allow you to monitor progress and make step by step achievements, on the journey to introduce sustainable food.

TASKS

Manager
You want targets that state specifically what you plan to achieve. To do this, be SMART:*

Specific: People can see a clear target better.

Measurable: Use an existing indicator if possible.

Agreed: People are more likely to participate if they agree with the target.

Realistic: - Set a challenging. but achievable target.

Trackable: track all that contributes to the target.

Check out the targets for Food for Life

Skilled Workers
Skilled workers play a vital role in setting targets. You are in the best position to know what is realistic and achievable. Discuss several of the overall objectives and SMART with colleagues. Agree specific targets, roles and timescales with manager.

All Staff
If people feel part of the target setting process they are much more likely to help achieve the targets. Make suggestions for possible targets.

  * There are variations of SMART e.g. Ministry of Defence's SMART is Stretching, Measurable, Agreed, Realistic, and Time-bounded.