Free school meals plea from MP

WARRINGTON North MP Helen Jones is calling for free school meals for every child in proverty following new shocking statistics which reveal more than 1,300 youngsters who live in her constituency are missing out on one.
The new statistics revealed by leading charity, The Children’s Society, represents 40% of all children in poverty in the constituency who are not getting a free school meal.
Many low income families are unable to get free school meals simply because their parents are working – no matter how little they earn.
Helen said: “The huge number of children living in poverty in my constituency who are not getting a free school meal is disgraceful.
“ Making sure every child can get a decent meal in the middle of their school day is a basic essential. This is why I am supporting this important campaign to change the situation locally and across the country. “
For some children, a free school lunch may be the only hot, nutritious meal they get.
Matthew Reed, Chief Executive of The Children’s Society, said: “ We know from the families we work with up and down the country that parents are struggling to make ends meet. Right now, the government is reconsidering which children will be entitled to get free school meals. We urge the government to take this opportunity to make sure all children in poverty can get a free school meal.
For more information on The Children’s Society’s Fair and Square campaign visit www.childrensscociety.org.uk/fairandsquare