THOUSANDS of eligible children in the Dudley borough will be offered free school meals during February half term, Dudley Council has confirmed.

The council has pledged to support all eligible children through its winter grant fund, as the pandemic continues to place a strain on families.

Parents and carers with eligible children are already getting free school meal food parcels through their child’s school and the service will now continue during the half term week.

Councillor Ruth Buttery, Dudley Council's cabinet member for children and young people, said: "We know that many families are sadly being hard hit by the pandemic and Dudley Council is committed to supporting our residents through these difficult times.

"Offering free school meals to our most vulnerable children during February half term will no doubt act as a lifeline for many parents and carers and I would encourage anyone who is struggling to get in touch with their school."

The meals are intended to replace a child’s school lunch for the five weekdays only.

To find out more go to dudley.gov.uk/residents/benefits/free-school-meals or see dudley.gov.uk/coronavirus for details of further help and support available during the pandemic.

Cllr Buttery added: "Ongoing help and support is also available for everyone who lives and works in Dudley borough through the Dudley Covid support line."

The Dudley Covid support helpline can be contacted by calling 0300 3302 152 (between 9.30am and 12.30pm - Monday to Friday).