The free school meals voucher scheme should be the start of real change, not just a one-off
After long months of sadness and uncertainty, we are all hoping for a return to normality this autumn. But we must not forget the positive steps we’ve taken as a society as we have come together to fight this pandemic.
The nationwide outpouring of appreciation for our NHS and care workers. More flexible working so we spend less time stuck in the office or crammed onto public transport at rush hour. And – a perfect example of how we can do more for those in need – the extension of free school meals throughout the summer holidays.
Thanks to the fantastic campaign led by footballer Marcus Rashford, this year the government is providing a “Covid Summer Food Fund”. This means children who are usually eligible for benefits-related free school meals can claim vouchers to cover the six-week summer holiday.
This will come as a huge relief to low-income families who may be struggling even more during these difficult times. But this is not a new problem. There are many parents who feel a real dread every term, as the school holidays roll around, at the idea of having to find an extra £30 to £40 per week to buy meals usually provided at school.
The voucher scheme should not just be a one-off gesture – it should be the start of real change. I am calling on the government to commit to providing food vouchers for children from the most vulnerable families during every school holiday, in the autumn spending review.
Layla Moran is the Liberal Democrat MP for Oxford West and Abingdon and a candidate for the party’s leadership
Read more
Opening schools is less about public health than it is politics
Health workers should be paid more than MPs and ministers combined
