Residents across Kent struggling with the rising cost of living will be in line for help - as campaigners say families face a "bleak" winter.

County council leader Roger Gough announced a range of measures expected to cost £11.6 million at a meeting on Thursday.

Among them, the Tory revealed, will be an extra £3.12 million for families with children who receive free school meals.

Meal vouchers will once again be provided by KCC, not only over the forthcoming half-term break, but also over Christmas, the spring half-term and next Easter.

Cllr Gough told colleagues: "I am keenly aware of the very real challenges people are facing this winter, especially those on the lowest incomes.

"It’s vital that we do everything we can to alleviate some of the hardship and financial pressure the most vulnerable families are dealing with as the cost-of-living crisis bites.

"There is no doubt that the months ahead will not be easy for many people in Kent."

"I hope that our strong communities, our work with partners in every part of the county and our determination to support those most in need as best we can, will go some way to help many people get through these challenging times."

An additional £2.6 million will also be used to give eligible families £50 towards energy bills.

Funding will also be given to district and borough councils for schemes in their own areas.

Cllr Gough praised the Kent Together approach developed with partner agencies to respond to hardship during the pandemic and this would continue to have a vital role in reaching individuals during the coming winter crisis.

The Conservative suggested those worried about paying their bills, heating their homes or feeding their families contact the Kent Together helpline for advice.

"We are all too aware of the impact that poverty can have on both physical and mental wellbeing," he continued.

"For that reason alone, we need to get this help and support out of the door and to those that need it the most.”

Kent's Community Wardens will be encouraged to use their local knowledge to ensure no vulnerable members of society were over-looked.

Cllr Gough stated that those needing a warm space could visit the county's libraries, where they could also get advice at drop-in surgeries.

Despite this, Dr Lauren Sullivan (Lab) noted: "It is an incredibly bleak outlook."

Cllr Sue Chandler (Con) also mentioned that 40% of children in Thanet were already in poverty.

"The effect of child poverty lasts forever," she said.

"It has lasting effects on health and on life chances."

Canterbury councillor councillor Mike Sole (LD) added: "It is a disgrace that we are now a county where food banks are the norm for many people."

Members of the KCC meeting voted in favour of introducing the £11.6 million measures.