Sutton Council will be offering free school meals to ensure 'no child goes hungry' over the winter holiday period.

Families whose children are eligible for free meals will be offered support over the Christmas holidays and February half term. 

The announcement follows on from the scheme developed for the October half term, but will support a much wider group of children, young people and families, including:

- Children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 registered to receive free school meals at the school they attend.

- Children in Year 3 onwards from low income families receiving benefits (Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance, Employment Support, Child Tax Credits, Universal Credit and some other benefits).

- Children aged 2 and receiving the free childcare entitlement.

- Children aged 3 and 4 attending an early years setting and receiving the Early Years Pupil Premium.

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Councillor Marian James, Chair of the People Committee said: "We know many children, young people and families in the borough are in need of financial support, which is often exacerbated during the winter period.

"As a council we are committed to ensuring no child goes hungry and as a result have extended our Free School Meals offer over Christmas and February half term.

"We are making sure that feeding those children who are most at risk is our priority."

Parents/carers of children that are registered for free school meals at their school do not need to apply - as the school will distribute vouchers to eligible families directly.

Sutton Foodbank are supporting families who do not fall under the scheme.

Community Action Sutton are also providing food parcels to families in need.

For more information about the scheme visit here.