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Call for cash or voucher scheme to replace free school meals during coronavirus crisis


By Andrew Dixon

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A QUESTION mark hangs over provision of free meals for pupils in the Highlands following school closures last week due to coronavirus.

Discussions at the Highland Council are under way to decide how the meals will be provided in the upcoming weeks as families across the region face the consequences of stronger lockdown measures.

Regional MSP David Stewart, who is Labour’s shadow health minister, said he would support a voucher or cash system until a school meal delivery service is set up.

David Stewart.
David Stewart.

He added: “This would guarantee that all children who need it are eating a hot meal at lunchtime.

"Whatever happens we need to make sure that all children are fed, particularly the most vulnerable and the council needs to do it in a way that takes care of the health and wellbeing of those who are working in the school and cooking and delivering those meals.”

Campaigners from the Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) are calling on Highland Council to ensure a “consistent bedrock” of support.

John Dickie, CPAG director for Scotland, said: “We urge Highland Council to ensure a dignified, cash payment to families currently in receipt of free school meals.

“There are real question marks over whether vouchers can provide the choice, flexibility and dignity that families need in these stressful times."

One in five children in Highland are already living in poverty according to the latest estimates.

Charity Children 1st is urging families across the Highlands in need of support to contact its Parentline.

Anne Jarvis, Children 1st Parentline Scotland supervisor, said: “This is an anxious time for everybody, and as families have to stay at home with children for a long period of time, parents will face additional stresses and challenges.

“Being isolated could be particularly hard for families who are already facing complex challenges, particularly if their normal sources of support change. Because Parentline offers support to families online, on the phone and via email, seven days a week, 365 days a year we can continue to provide this through the coming weeks and we want every family to know that if they need us, we’re here.”

For Parentline, visit children1st.org.uk/parentline or call 08000 28 22 33.


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