Families Offered Support with Easter Food Costs
Low-income families in Somerset can receive assistance with food expenses during the Easter holidays. Here are the key details of the support available:
– Supermarket Vouchers: Families can apply for vouchers to help with food costs through the Citizens Advice Somerset website.
– Change in Funding: This initiative follows the conclusion of a previous scheme that provided vouchers to all families with children eligible for benefits-related free school meals during school holidays over the past five years.
Importance of Support for Families
Matt Vella, head teacher at St Michael’s Academy in Yeovil—where nearly 40% of pupils qualify for free school meals—highlighted the necessity of a straightforward application process. Vella emphasized that clarity is vital to minimize added stress for families during this challenging time.
Councillor Heather Shearer, Liberal Democrat lead member for children, noted the urgency of establishing the Easter scheme. The council was informed very, very late in the day by the government about the discontinuation of previous support, prompting swift action.
Comparison with Other Local Authorities
Many local authorities have opted to continue their voucher schemes utilizing new government funding. A Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson reiterated that the national £1 billion Crisis and Resilience fund serves as a genuine safety net to assist families during difficult times. Local councils are encouraged to tailor their schemes to meet their area’s specific needs, which can include funding for free school meals during holidays if deemed necessary.
Statistics Highlighting the Need
As of January 2025, there were 15,285 children in Somerset eligible for free school meals, accounting for 21.2% of pupils. Vella expressed concern that ending the holiday voucher scheme would significantly affect the most vulnerable students, asserting that the previous program provided families with consistent access to nutritious meals outside of term time.
Looking Ahead
Councillor Shearer affirmed that families who previously received vouchers will be eligible for help this Easter. She urged them to reach out to Citizens Advice Somerset either online or via phone to access support.
We want families who availed of those vouchers before to have them again this Easter, she stated.
For more information, families are encouraged to follow BBC Somerset on Facebook and X, and share story ideas via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630.
This Easter support is a crucial lifeline for many families, helping to alleviate food costs during a time of year when financial pressure can be particularly intense.