Ending School Meal Holiday Payments

Dear Parent/ Carer,

We have been asked by Welsh Government (WG) to inform you that there will not be any further extension to the school holiday Free School Meal provision.

This means that unfortunately there will not be any direct payments or supermarket vouchers provided to families eligible for free school meals, for the summer holiday period or for subsequent holiday periods. 

This scheme was introduced in response to the COVID pandemic as a form of time-limited support to families. This was then extended due to the current Cost of Living crisis, although WG have confirmed they are no longer able to continue these arrangements effective immediately.

Should you require additional support with costs please be aware of the following useful online resources which are updated regularly and provide useful information on possible sources of financial support, including the Discretionary Assistance Fund for people experiencing extreme financial pressures.
Get help with the cost of living | GOV.WALES

This WG webpage is regularly updated and provides information on possible sources of financial support, including our Discretionary Assistance Fund for people experiencing extreme financial pressures. 
Here to help with the cost of living | GOV.WALES

This campaign seeks to encourage people to contact Advicelink Cymru - Citizens Advice for free impartial advice on maximising their incomes, including accessing any financial support.

For further help and advice around cost of living support within Merthyr Tydfil, please visit  www.merthyr.gov.uk/resident/cost-of-living-support-and-advice

Thank you

Sue Walker
Director of Education