With many children relying on free school meals Cabinet Member for Education Councillor Suzy Horton provides an update on Portsmouth City Council's action to maintain this vital service.
School meals are provided by whatever contractor a school/ academy chain decides to go with and this will continue during the weeks ahead.
Free school meals are available for those children based on family income (all ages) AND all children in Key Stage 1 (Yr R - Yr 2) regardless of family income.
From next Monday (23rd):
The majority of schools are with the same contractor and the council has been working closely with them and schools this week to plan ahead, whilst responding to the ever-changing situation and waiting for government guidance.
- Free school meals will be available for those children in school (parents are key workers and/ or vulnerable groups)
- Free school meals will also be available for all ordinarily eligible children who are at home. This will be a 'grab and go' meal to maintain social distancing.
- The arrangements for children requesting a meal are being organised by individual schools, so parents need to look out for updates and information on how to apply.
- The arrangements for how children pick up their meal will be organised by individual schools and will be done in accordance with guidelines on social distancing.
Obviously this is going to be a changeable and unpredictable picture over the next few weeks so watch out for updates from schools. And please be patient with schools while they ascertain numbers and organise how this will happen.
Please remember the principles of why schools are even open at all and decide whether your child needs to be there, but definitely do obviously make sure your child is getting a meal from school if they need it.
Why schools are open:
- to keep key workers working so they can save lives
- to keep vulnerable children safe and cared for
- to give food to those children who need it
Schools and families - coronavirus information
https://www.portsmouth.gov.uk/…/schools-and-families-corona…
Up to date health advice for residents who are concerned that they or their loved ones may be suffering from Covid19 can find advice from the NHS at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
Advice for businesses can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/news/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-for-employees-employers-and-businesses
Updates from Portsmouth City Council can be found at https://www.portsmouth.gov.uk/ext/news/coronavirus-covid-19
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