EVERY child in Gloucestershire who is entitled to a free school meal, will be helped this half-term, Gloucestershire County Council has said.

Parents and carers simply need to call 01452 328518 or 01452 426818, give their child’s name and a food voucher code, that can be used at local shops and the big supermarkets, will be sent direct to their mobile.

For each of the school holidays since the Covid pandemic started the council has offered holiday hunger support to all vulnerable young people. And this half-term is no different, they say.

The same support package will be in place over the Christmas holidays with the addition of any further help that it’s possible to offer struggling families during the ongoing crisis.

Since March this year, the council has also been able to support more vulnerable children, young people and their families, greater numbers of working age adults and older people through its enhanced Welfare Grant Scheme, which provides help with food deliveries, supermarket vouchers, essential household equipment, gas, electricity and essential items of furniture.

Details on how to apply can be found at https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/gloucestershire-welfare-support-scheme/

Anyone who can’t access the information online can call 01452 328518.

Leader of the council Mark Hawthorne said: “We have been working hard for months now to make sure no child goes hungry and this support and commitment will continue today, tomorrow and over the Christmas period. A nutritious meal every day is the very least every child should have.

“Our commitment is clear, no child in Gloucestershire needs to go hungry. There is a range of schemes in place and I would urge all those that need support to take advantage of what is available. We all need help and support at some point in our lives - that’s what we’re here for.”