Thousands of children and families across Newcastle will be provided with extra support over the Easter holidays. Vouchers will be issued by local schools and colleges to more than 16,000 eligible children.
Children eligible for benefit-related free school meals and those in need can enjoy two weeks of exciting activities and a nutritious meal. The scheme is supported by “The Best Spring Ever” campaign, which sees more than 80 community venues and projects provide for the children and families that need it most.
The scheme provides healthy and nutritious meals, fun physical activities, and places to be social and feel safe, with opportunities for engaging and enriching activities.
Cllr Sylvia Copley, Cabinet Member, a Growing City, Newcastle City Council said “There can be additional pressure on family finances during school holiday times but by continuing to provide food vouchers and free activities this means no child needs to miss out. These initiatives put children and young people at the heart of our city by providing excellent services that support, care and offer new opportunities.
“I would like to thank all our partners who are helping to provide the programme and I hope all families enjoy the ’Best Spring Ever’.”
Who is eligible?
The funding is available primarily for school-aged children from reception to year 11 who receive benefits-related free school meals. These are available to pupils if their parents are in receipt of one of the qualifying benefits and have a claim verified by their school or local authority.
Income Support
income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
income-related Employment and Support Allowance
support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
the guaranteed element of Pension Credit
Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190)
Working Tax Credit run-on - paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit
Universal Credit - if you apply after 1 April 2018 your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get)
In addition, there are a small proportion of places available for children from the following groups:
Children assessed by the local authority as being in need, at risk or vulnerable (this means the child has a CIN (Child in Need plan), CPP (Child Protection Plan) or EHA (Early Help Assessment).
Young Carers
Looked-after children or previously looked after children (Kinship carers only)
Children with an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan)
Children directly referred by providers, schools, parenting practitioners, health visitors, or housing associations (see below referral process)
Children from refugee families.
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