Free school meals row: Durham County Council steps in to feed vulnerable children

County chiefs have promised to step in to feed vulnerable children over the half term holiday.
The issue of free school meals has dominated headlines for days.The issue of free school meals has dominated headlines for days.
The issue of free school meals has dominated headlines for days.

The impact of the coronavirus pandemic has prompted fears many families could be left to go hungry over the week-long break.

And in the wake of the government’s refusal to extend the existing free school meal scheme outside formal term time, bosses at Durham County Council have followed the example of other English local authorities and said they will instead.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Cllr Angela Surtees, cabinet member for social inclusion, said: “Sadly, there are a significant number of families across our region who are struggling to make ends meet.

“Many are unable to buy the basics and sometimes school is the only place where their children are able to eat a proper cooked meal.

“This means that during the holidays, children are left hungry or their parents go without in order to feed their families.

“This is not a situation we can allow to happen.

“We are absolutely determined that no child will go hungry in County Durham and, if the Government does not help, then we will ensure that provision is in place for children in County Durham.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

More than 16,000 children in County Durham received free school meals last year.

According to the North East Poverty coalition, 35 per cent of North East children live in poverty.

While Durham County Council is yet to confirm how it will run it’s half term meals initiative, other local authorities have said they will provide vouchers and businesses across the region have also promised to provide support.

You can subscribe to this website and enjoy unlimited access to local news, information and puzzles online. With a digital subscription, you can read more than five articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Simply click ‘Subscribe’ in the menu.