Holiday food voucher scheme extended until March

Swindon could receive £1.5m to pay for the holiday meal vouchers

Thousands of children who receive free school meals will continue to be offered holiday food vouchers.

The scheme was due to end in September, but the new Labour government has announced another extension until the end of March.

Swindon Borough Council currently supports about 9,400 children under the scheme, which helps to ensure kids are well-fed over school breaks.

Cabinet member for communities Jim Grant said he was "really pleased" the fund had been extended to "help struggling families over the winter months".

It is estimated that the council could receive about £1.5m for the vouchers.

'Reduction of poverty'

Mr Grant continued: “We are focusing on the reduction of poverty across the borough and this additional funding will help those struggling with the cost of energy, food, water, and other essentials at a time when they need it most.”

Between April and August, the council was allocated £1.35m for the scheme. This included distributing 28,200 food vouchers during school holidays, which supported 9,400 children at a cost of around £1.13m, according to Local Democracy Reporting Service.