Free £35 food voucher given to thousands of Sheffield families 'most in need' at Christmas

Sheffield Council is issuing the vouchers of £35 to everyone who receives free school meals – with 22,000 children in the city who are eligible for the scheme.

An extra 7,000 children will also receive a voucher to help with financial support over the holidays.

The announcement follows the Government announcement of a winter grant schemes to provide support with food and bills over the festive period.Sheffield Council will work with schools and communities to administer the programme.

Counc Julie Dore, council leader, said: "As we enter the winter months and especially during this pandemic an increased number of families across the city will be facing financial hardship.

"These vouchers will provide support to people who are most in need at the end of what has been a very difficult year for many.“No child should ever go hungry, or be cold; I hope this support goes some way in preventing this from happening. I encourage everyone who is eligible and is in need of help to claim it.”If any parent is struggling to access their voucher please contact your school in the first instance or call our helpline on 0114 2734567.