South Tyneside parents get reminder over free half-term food vouchers

In line with the council leader, Cllr Tracey Dixon’s, priorities to support families and more vulnerable communities, thousands of families who are eligible for free school meals will receive a £15 supermarket voucher.

This is support is funded through the Covid Support Grant, which is aimed at helping those most affected by the pandemic.

Cllr Adam Ellison, lead member for children, young people and families on South Tyneside Council, said: “It has become very apparent over the past year that some people have suffered far more than other as a result of the pandemic.

"Those who were already struggling have been hit disproportionately harder.

“We remain committed to giving every child in the borough the best possible start in life and making sure that all our children have enough to eat is key to that.”

This could be the last time families will receive a voucher as the scheme is being replaced by the Holiday Activities and Food programme during the summer break and at Christmas.

This programme, which is being funded by the Department for Education, will mean that children and young people who receive benefit-related free school meals will be able to access nutritious meals as well as a range of activities across South Tyneside from the first week of the summer holidays.

To find out more about the support available, go to www.southtyneside.gov.uk/coronavirus

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