Decision details

Local implementation of the Government COVID winter grant scheme to help families provide food for children over the holidays, and other support for families and individuals.

To consider proposals for the local implementation of the recently announced Government COVID winter grant scheme taking account of government guidelines. Includes targeted support for families to feed children over the holiday period, other support to families and individuals including help with household bills.  It will also consider related Government schemes for Holiday activities and food programmes for next year.

1)    That a sum equivalent to £30 per child eligible for free school meals be provided to schools and colleges in order that they can provide a voucher for the Christmas period.

2)    That a sum equivalent to £15 per child eligible for free school meals be provided to schools and colleges in order that they can provide a voucher for the February half term period.

3)    That the balance of funding available, estimated to be £697,500, be allocated to the Local Welfare Provision budget to support additional food, fuel and other essentials, in accordance with the grant determination and guidance issued by the Secretary of State.

4)    That a further report be submitted to Cabinet in early 2021 to consider proposals for a Holiday Activities and Food Programme for 2021, following confirmation of Government funding support through the Spending Review 2020 announcement on 25 November 2020.