Support still available to those most in need this spring

Help includes Easter free school meals for eligible children and financial support to cover food and essential utilities

As we head towards the school Easter holidays we’re being reminded that financial and practical help continue to be available for people struggling to feed their families, or heat their homes, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The families of 14,500 eligible children and young people will receive food vouchers or equivalent support worth £30 through their schools, college or nursery ahead of the Easter break.

Financial help is also being extended into the spring for support with the costs of food and essential utilities. More than 5,000 families have already received emergency help through this scheme.

Oxfordshire County Council say they anticipate grants will be available until 21 June. However, with only a fixed amount of money made available by central government, it is encouraging eligible families to apply as soon as possible, if they have not already.

Four thousand free places for children eligible for free school meals are being provided in holiday schemes, for between four to eight days, over the Easter period. Providers will be offering a range of activities to support the development of resilience, character and wellbeing, along with education about nutrition and nutritional meals.

Details of how to apply are available from Oxfordshire County Council’s website.

Councillor Ian Hudspeth, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “The pandemic and the lockdown are continuing to affect so many people, not least financially, in an unprecedented way. That is why this ongoing support is so vital. No-one likes asking for help, but please, if you are struggling to pay for the essentials, then get in touch with your local authority and see if you are eligible for some financial help. We’re here to help you.”

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Published: 25/03/2021 09:41am by Banbury FM Newsteam

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