More support for families in Bucks during Easter break
The council is running three schemes to help families
More help is being offered to families who are struggling in Buckinghamshire over the Easter holidays.
The council is running three schemes to support families with children and young people eligible for free school meals.
First is the Helping Hand winter food voucher scheme, which is funded by the Government's COVID-19 Winter Grant Scheme.
Digital food vouchers worth £40 are being given to help families struggling with household finances, and can be used at Asda, Morrisons, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Marks and Spencer Food or Aldi.
There is also a £10 digital voucher that can be used at either Decathlon, The Entertainer, Argos, or a National Book Token that can be used at any book retailer, as part of encouraging physical and enriching activities during the school holiday.
Alongside the activity voucher, the council is also offering a limited number of holiday club places where children, aged five to 11, will be able to take part in craft and sports activities, including a nutritionally balanced meal to take away at the end of the session.
Places are offered on a first come, first served basis, and are free of charge.
The council will be sending a letter to relevant parents and carers, via schools, before the end of term, to give them the details of how to claim and activate the vouchers, with a link for families eligible to book into the free holiday club places.
Simon James, service director for education said:
"We would like to say a huge thank you to all our schools who have been supporting families during the spring term.
"It's been a tough time during national lockdown, but they have now welcomed students back to school and are providing them not only with a superb education but the extra back up they need."
Claire Hawkes, service director for localities and strategic partnerships added:
"Our Helping Hand team continue to be available to direct people to the support that is right for them.
"This may be from the voluntary or community sector or direct from the council.
"If anyone is worried about food or warmth, and not sure what help is available, please contact our Helping Hand support line on 01296 531151 and someone will be there to help you.
"Alternatively visit our online directory to see what support is available in your local area."