Aberdeen City Council to write off £400,000 in school meal debt
The local authority says it will help struggling families
Aberdeen City Council will write off more than £400,000 in school meal debt accrued up until March last year.
The local authority was able to apply for an emergency one-off fund for debt build-up from a £1.5m Scottish Government pot.
It says debt totalling £411,977.90 will be wiped out as part of its commitment to help tackle child poverty.
Councillor Alex McLellan, Convener of the Finance and Resources Committee, said: “Aberdeen City Council is able to write off school meal debts thanks to funding provided by the Scottish Government.
“We are aware a number of families are struggling during this ongoing cost-of-living crisis, so it is positive news that this funding will directly benefit families by clearing their school meals debt.”
A 2022 study commissioned by Aberlour Children’s Charity found more than £1m was owed by families across Scotland for school meals.
Councillor Martin Greig, Convener of the Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “This announcement is very welcome news.
“There are many reasons for falling behind with school meal payments.
“Financial difficulties can affect many families.
“I would encourage any parent or carer who is struggling financially to visit the Council website for information about school meals.
“There is information on entitlement to free school meals and other useful details. School meals are important for young people.
“We have to offer as much help and support as possible."
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