Winter support package launched in Norfolk
A package of support to help families in need in Norfolk this Christmas and winter season is being developed.
The County Council says it doesn't want anyone to have to worry about the next utility bill or food shop this Christmas.
It's working on a support package to help give people some peace of mind.
It added a key part of the package is food - it's working with food voucher company Edenred to provide support for all those eligible for free school meals, children in the early years who receive pupil premium and all of the council's care leavers during the Christmas holidays.
It says the voucher scheme will form part of a wider package of measures for families experiencing hardship.
The council says it will also be extending the Norfolk Assistance Scheme which already provides support for food, fuel, clothes and other essential household items to residents in the county.
Councillor Andrew Proctor, leader of the County Council, said: "We know that this is going to be a tough winter for many people in Norfolk, with the impact of Covid hitting many in the pocket.
“There are people in our county who have never needed help before but who have been left experiencing hardship because of the virus.
“The voucher scheme is important, but we know hardship right now is being faced by a wide range of vulnerable households across the county worrying about paying the next utility bill or the next food shop due to the pandemic. Therefore, we will also be launching a wider package of support for winter over the coming weeks.
“I would encourage anyone not to wait if they need support now. Information on how to access support is available at www.norfolk.gov.uk/coronavirus or by calling 0344 800 8020.”
The council and Norfolk schools are encouraging more families to register and apply for free school meals, so that they begin to receive support in time for the school holidays.