Issue - meetings

To set out Council proposals to provide assistance with food utilities and other essential supplies in accordance with the guidance issued by Government.

Wards affected:  N/A

Contact:  Natalie Mcsheffrey, Head of Education Relationships and Business, Steven Bird, Head of Welfare and Exchequer Services and Julian Hobson, Senior Manager Welfare and Exchequer Services

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.