Just days after it was revealed school holiday food vouchers for the Island's most vulnerable children had been scrapped, the Isle of Wight Council has announced plans for an emergency scheme.
As Isle of Wight Radio first reported, the free initiative, which was rolled out during the pandemic, was withdrawn ahead of the May half-term.
The council said it was "only ever intended to be short-term", and pointed the finger at central Government for changing how funding is distributed.
The news prompted anger and confusion among parents who relied on the scheme.
At the time the council said a new, one-off voucher scheme would be rolled out instead but it admitted it would not be ready for this coming half-term.
Just two days later, an emergency scheme has now been set up. It will see a voucher of £15, per child, given to eligible families.
These can be spent in local supermarkets.
Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet member for children's services, said:
"We appreciate what a difference the food voucher scheme made to families with school age children.
"We are offering a one-off opportunity for families who are in greatest need to receive a £15 voucher per child for this half term by contacting us directly.
"We are currently working with partners to further develop the range of support that will help Island residents who are finding it hard to make ends meet."
Eligible families must apply directly to the council before 4pm on Wednesday, June 1 to claim their voucher for the half term week, which can be emailed or posted out.
The scheme is available to:
- families eligible for benefits-related free school meals;
- children with a social worker;
- children open to early help;
- 2 to 4 year-olds eligible for Early Years Pupil Premium.
Families can check their eligibility and apply by contacting the council's COVID-19 Helpline on (01983) 823600.
For further advice and support, call the Citizens Advice line on 0800 144 88 48.
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