Children across Tameside who receive free school meals during term time will get vouchers to support them over the summer holidays.

The scheme established by Tameside Council will see families on income-based free school meals in the borough receive a one-off food voucher, worth £90 per eligible child, for essential supplies at local supermarkets.

It will also be available to care leavers, under-fives in low income families and entitled to free child care and low-income sixth-form and college students.

The council say it has provided additional funding to top up the Covid Local Support Grant provided by the government, to ensure that vulnerable children are supported throughout the summer holiday period.

Tameside Council Executive Leader, Councillor Brenda Warrington, said: “It has been an exceptionally hard 12 months for families in Tameside with all the challenges and hardships that the pandemic has thrown at them. I am delighted we can offer the free school meals voucher as this is a way in which we can help children and families most in need at this critical time.”

Councillor Leanne Feeley, Executive Member for Lifelong Learning, added: “We are pleased to be able to provide these vouchers to ensure that no child goes hungry during the school holidays.

"We have ensured we provide additional funding on top of the government scheme and are committed to providing ongoing support to families from the earliest point that help maybe required. We have a range of local support and provision and plenty of exciting free activities planned over the summer months for everyone to enjoy.”

Schools and other education providers will work with the council to distribute vouchers before the end of term.

Any families who are not eligible for free school meals but in need of support should contact the Early Help Team on 0161 342 4260 for support and advice.

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