BRACKNELL Forest Council will not be offering free school meals to children over half-term. 

Following the government’s refusal to extend the provision over the holidays, a number of organisations, restaurants, pubs and charities have offered free food for families across the UK and in Bracknell Forest, too. 

Inspired by footballer Marcus Rashford’s unrelenting campaign to ensure vulnerable children do not go hungry, a number of local authorities have also offered free school meals to families in their patches. 

READ MORE: Bracknell MP explains why he voted against free school meals extension

Doncaster Council, Kensington and Chelsea council and Birmingham City Council are just three local authorities getting involved. 

The News asked Bracknell Forest Council if it would also be giving out free school meals over half-term. 

Cllr Gareth Barnard, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said: “Bracknell Forest Council isn’t specifically providing free school meals over the half-term period. 

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“However, throughout the pandemic, the council has provided additional financial assistance to Bracknell Foodbank to support families and individuals in need with essential supplies including fresh food, nappies, sanitary products, toiletries and cleaning products, as well as top-ups for utility and mobile phone payments.

“For any parents who are worried about the impact of the school holiday and are struggling to meet the cost of essential supplies, we would urge them to get in touch with the council’s welfare and housing service, which can make a referral to ensure their needs are met.

“The council’s welfare and housing service may also be able to assist those experiencing hardship by advising them on other support or help available to meet other essential costs for a period.  

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“This is sometimes called a crisis payment. If any residents are concerned and would like to speak to someone regarding help with basic supplies, please contact our team on 01344 352010 (lines are open Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm) or email: benefits@bracknell-forest.gov.uk.”

Across Bracknell Forest, several organisations and residents have stepped in to help out families in the borough.  

A Facebook group named ‘free holiday lunches for Bracknell kids’ set up in the days following the vote now has more than 700 members aiming to reach out to those who need meals the most.