South Gloucestershire council have announced they will use Emergency Assistance Grant funding to help families in need through half term.

Families eligible for free school meals can apply for a payment card by visiting the councils One Stop Shops, or by contacting their local Citizens Advice Bureau or calling the Council on 01454 868009

Successful applicants will receive a card within 48 hours with sufficient funds (£20) for meals for a week for their children, that can be used in all main supermarkets and other retail outlets.

The council also announced that they are working with local suppliers, alongside schools and academies, to provide food parcels for those eligible for Free School Meals, which they hope will be in place by the middle to the end of the week.

The council have received support from multi-academy trusts (MAT) CEOs and Headteachers from across the area who will be opening up schools across a range of locations within South Gloucestershire for the delivery of food parcels.

Details of this offer will be available within the next two days, including the locations and the time when people can come and collect.

Cabinet Member for Children and Young People Cllr Sam Bromiley said: “We don’t want any children to go hungry whether they qualify for free school meals or not and we are doing all we can to ensure support is available to those who need it.

"I received free school meals as a child and I know that the holidays can be a tough time for some families as they need to provide more food than during term time as well as managing activities and childcare. Our emergency assistance grants will help to make sure that our most vulnerable children and their families get the support they need.”

To find out more and how to claim please visit www.southglos.gov.uk/halftermsupport or call 0800 953 7778.