With half-term just around the corner, Torbay Council remain committed to supporting all low income families by ensuring they have enough to eat, not just those who qualify for free school meals.

Those eligible will receive vouchers to the value of £30 per week, per child in order to be able to purchase food throughout the half-term period.

Early Years, Schools and Post 16 providers will work with the Council to issue the vouchers – focussing on all children in food poverty rather than those just eligible for free school meals.

Other Local Authorities are paying out £15 per week, per child with Torbay Council deciding to top up the amount to its eligible families to £30 per week, per child.

Cllr Cordelia Law, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Torbay Council, said; “We are committed to ensuring that our low income families continue to remain supported during these difficult times, and are working with our educational providers to identify eligible families. There is lots of support for anyone who may be struggling with food poverty, there is no need for any family to go without in Torbay”.

Torbay Food Alliance, a consortium of 12 food banks and community voluntary organisations have provided more than 325,000 meals to those in need since March 2020. Anyone struggling with food poverty is urged to contact the COVID-10 Community Helpline on 01803 446022 or visit www.torbayfoodalliance.org

If you are pregnant or have a child under four you could be eligible to receive Healthy Start vouchers. Healthy Start vouchers are issued weekly and can be used to buy fresh fruit, vegetables and milk. Visit www.healthystart.nhs.uk for further information.