Free School Meals Vouchers for Bedford Borough Children This Summer

Thousands of families across Bedford Borough, who are entitled to income related free school meals, will be given vouchers for the Summer holidays.

Funded through the Household Support Fund, the council will provide each eligible child £15 per week for the 6 weeks, issued in one £90 voucher within the first couple of weeks of the summer holidays. We anticipate issuing over 6,650 vouchers to Bedford Borough families.

Cllr Michael Headley, Portfolio Holder for Finance and Welfare said, "The rise in the cost of living is proving very tough for many people financially, so I'm very pleased that we can continue to provide this support for families. It is important that no child goes hungry in Bedford Borough. We know what a difference this help can make.

"Hopefully this support will mean children and young people in the Borough can enjoy the summer break without families worrying about where their child's next meal is coming from."

Children are eligible for the vouchers if their family receives one of the benefits listed below:

• Universal Credit - with an annual earned income of no more than £7,400 after tax
• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Support under Part 6 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• The guaranteed element of Pension Credit
• Working Tax Credit run-on (paid for the four weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit)
• Child Tax Credit (with no Working Tax Credit) with an annual gross income of no more than £16,190
• Early Years Pupil Premium
• 2 Year Old Funding

Families with eligible children will receive their vouchers as they have previously, via an email or through their school or setting's distribution process.

The Council and Bedford Borough schools are encouraging more families to register and apply for free school meals, so that they begin to receive the support they need.

To find out if you are eligible and to register for free school meals visit www.bedford.gov.uk/schools-education-and-childcare/education-welfare-service/free-school-meals/