Children across Kent will be entitled to benefits-related Free School Meals this October half-term, Kent County Council has announced today.

Each eligible child or young person will receive one £15 food voucher to be used in supermarkets and local shops.

KCC will fund the vouchers with part of its £11.06m allocation from the Government’s Household Support Fund, which was launched in September to help local authorities support vulnerable homes during winter time.

Shellina Prendergast, Kent County Council’s cabinet member for education and skills, said KCC is pleased to announce the "fantastic scheme" this half-term and the council will continue to support families as the country still recovers from the effects of the pandemic.

She added: “The school holidays can be difficult times for families who are struggling financially as children and young people are at home for more meal times, leading to increased food bills, so we hope the vouchers help to ease the pressure on parents and carers in this position.

"We are also pleased the Government has listened to the concerns of Kent County Council and other local authorities, has recognised the challenges low-income families are facing at this time, and has provided the Household Support Grant, which has enabled us to continue to fund food vouchers for families who need them during the school holidays.

The cabinet member urged all interested parents and carers who may have eligible children and young people to apply as soon as possible.

If a child receives Universal Infant Free School Meals (UIFSM) during term-time, families will still have to apply for benefits-related Free School Meals to receive vouchers during the October half-term.

This is because the children would be in Year 2 or below.

Parents and carers should direct any enquiries to their child's school, as they will be responsible for allocating the vouchers to their pupils.

Click here to find out more about eligibility and how to apply.

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