Over 4,700 primary and secondary school pupils entitled to benefits-related free school meals will receive a food voucher worth up to £30 (or equivalent) directly through their schools. 

This voucher is designed to cover the cost of a lunchtime meal during the holiday period.

Children eligible for the early years pupil premium who are not in a school setting will receive their voucher posted directly from Herefordshire Council.

Councillor Ivan Powell, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “I’m really pleased that the DWP grant has enabled the council to continue to provide free school meals support for local families over the Christmas holidays.

“The rise in the cost of living continues to be very difficult for many of our residents, so this additional support is really important for families with children.”

For more information about the Herefordshire free school meals scheme for the Christmas holidays, visit: www.herefordshire.gov.uk/holidaysfsm

·       The free school meals food voucher scheme is funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) through the government’s Household Support Fund.