CHILDREN in Ross-on-Wye will continue to receive free school meals support over the summer break.

Over 4,700 children primary and secondary school pupils, along with those in nurseries, who are entitled to benefits related free school meals will receive a free food voucher up to the value of £90 or equivalent directly through their schools, to cover the cost of a lunchtime meal during the school holidays. Children who are eligible for the early years’ pupil premium and are not in a school setting, will receive a voucher posted direct from the council.

Primary and secondary schools will be contacting parents and carers before the summer holidays to let them know that they are entitled to the free school meal vouchers, and how to receive them.

Parents can check their eligibility and apply for free school meals on Herefordshire Council’s website.

Councillor Ivan Powell, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “I’m really pleased that the Department of Work and Pensions’ grant has enabled the council to continue to provide the free school meals support for local families over the summer holidays.

“The rise in the cost of living is proving very tough for many people, so this additional support is really important for families with children. “I’d advise contacting your child’s school directly if you have an eligible child and haven’t heard from them, or if you think you might qualify. You can check your eligibility and apply through the free school meals page on the council’s website.”

The free school meals food voucher scheme is funded by the Department for Work and Pensions through the government's Household support fund - a scheme that aims to support vulnerable families who have been particularly affected financially by the rise in the cost of living.