Council sends warning letters to Sheffield schools over potential ‘meal disruptions’ after Covid and Brexit

Even if there is a disruption, Sheffield City Council has assured the schools that they have been working to put contingency plans in place to cope with the situation.

The council had earlier this week released a letter warning schools that there would be disruption to the food supply and distribution chain of the dry and frozen goods.

They said cooks would have two days' worth of menu ingredients in stock including pasta or frozen food such as fish fingers.

The letter said catering firm Taylor Shaw, which has a contract to supply schools in the city, has seen some problems with Bidfood deliveries over the past few weeks that resulted in some late deliveries and non-deliveries.

However, this only applies to the goods Bidfoods deliver, which are frozen and dry goodsThe meat, poultry and fresh fruit and vegetables are supplied by Underwoods Meats and John Palins Groceries and are not affected at the moment.

The council also apologised in advance as some last minute changes may have to be made to the menus.

When contacted, Councillor Jayne Dunne, Member for Education, Children and Families said the council is aware of the challenges the suppliers are facing.

She said: "The issues have not yet directly affected our schools, but as a precautionary measure, we have been working hard to put contingency plans in place to mitigate the impact any delays may have."

Taylor Shaw have been contacted for comment.

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