Preston children on free school meals will receive vouchers over the October half-term.

Families whose children receive benefits-related free school meals can use the vouchers to help with food costs during the break.

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The news follows the recent launch of the government’s Household Support Fund (HSF) grant, which supports households in need with food, energy and water bills.

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Through the fund, schools can support eligible pupils with a £15 voucher to cover the one-week holiday, with the families of children and young people from reception to Year 11 receiving the vouchers.

County Councillor Jayne Rear, a cabinet member for education and skills, said: “I welcome this news from the government, as it means that some eligible families will continue to receive support whilst the schools are closed for the half-term break.

“We’re pleased that the government has announced this new grant, as we can use it to help some of our families. Unfortunately, school holidays can be a real challenge for our poorest families in Lancashire. The vouchers will help to ensure that children will be able to have healthy and nourishing meals during the holiday.”

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If a family is eligible for free school meals, their school will contact them about the scheme.

The electronic shopping vouchers will be distributed from the schools and are available to use at a range of supermarkets.

Aldi, Asda, McColl’s, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Waitrose, Company Shop Group and Iceland, including The Food Warehouse Stores, accept the vouchers.

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Families can redeem the vouchers by either presenting a paper copy or on their smartphone or tablet.

Families who are currently receiving free school meals and the following benefits will receive the vouchers directly from schools:

• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• The guaranteed element of Pension Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Working Tax Credit run-on
• Universal Tax Credit

For more information, visit – www.lancashire.gov.uk/children-education-families/schools/free-school-meals

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