Kirklees Council pick up free meals for children after Government's 'deeply disappointing' decision

This decision means more than 14,000 children in Kirklees will not have to go hungry during holidays.

Although it has not been possible to get the usual Free School Meal vouchers ready for the start of half-term on 26 October 2020, the money usually received through the scheme will be paid to eligible families retrospectively.

Councillor Carole Pattison, Cabinet Member for Children at Kirklees Council, said: “This means more than 14,000 children will not go hungry in Kirklees.

“It’s one of the easiest decisions we have had to make.

“We’re committed to giving children the best start in life and nutrition is vital to this.

“I’m deeply disappointed in the Government for failing to provide meals to hungry children during the holidays.

“Hunger does not end when schools break up. We will not sit by as children go hungry in Kirklees.

“We will never forget or ignore the struggles people are going through right now and if the Government won’t provide the funds to feed hungry children during holidays, we will."

Ms Pattison thanked footballer Marcus Rashford, who has been spearheading the campaign. It comes after Labour MP for Batley & Spen Tracy Brabin voted for the campaign, while Dewsbury MP Mark Eastwood (Conservative) voted against.

There is immediate food support and help available for families who need it during the upcoming half-term by contactingHardship Fund on: 08004561114. The voucher system will be in place as normal for our future school holidays for children who normally receive them during school time.