Mike Hedges MS welcomes continuation of free school meals for lower income families in school holidays

Mike Hedges MS welcomes continuation of free school meals for lower income families in school holidays

Mike Hedges MS, Welsh Labour’s Member of the Senedd for Swansea East  has welcomed the Welsh Labour Government’s announcement that free school meals will continue to be provided to children from lower income families during the school holidays, up until the end of next year’s February half term.

The extension of the provision will support lower-income families through the cost-of-living crisis, as energy and other costs are expected to rise over the winter. £11m will be provided to fund the support.

Welcoming the announcement, Mike Hedges MS said:

“The Welsh Labour Government knows how difficult school holidays can be for families, especially as they face the pressures caused by this unprecedented cost-of-living crisis.

“I want us to do everything possible to make sure that no child in Swansea East goes hungry, so I am pleased that the Welsh Labour Government is continuing to provide free school meals to children from lower income families during the school holidays.

“Extending free school meals during the school holidays for lower income families is one of several measures the Welsh Labour Government is taking to support people through this difficult time.”

“It is high time that the UK Conservative Government did its bit by providing the security and support our families deserve at this difficult time.” 

In April 2020, Wales became the first UK nation to guarantee free school meals for eligible families during the school holidays and meals have been provided during the school holidays since then. Individual local authorities decide how to administer the free meal provision, either by providing lunches, vouchers, or direct payments to families.

Free school meals are being provided to whole classes of primary school children in Wales from this term, as part of the Welsh Labour Government’s plans to provide free school meals to all primary school children in Wales by 2024.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

Information on eligibility can be found here: Free school meals: information for parents and carers | GOV.WALES