I’m disappointed that despite more than 2,000 signing the Holiday Hunger petition, Norfolk’s Conservative Cabinet has refused to back down on plans to scrap free school meals support during this Easter break.
This would have been much-needed support for children who are likely to be experiencing food insecurity and food poverty. Children that are more likely to suffer from anxiety and stress. The coronavirus pandemic has had a devastating impact on household food security, made worse now by the cost of living crisis. The short-notice of the decision gave families very little time to prepare. All at a time when the energy price cap has risen, increased Council Tax bills will be landing on people’s doormats and fuel costs continue to increase. It’s come at the worst possible time.
If children are not given the nutrition they need, there are long term effects on their health. In the short term, children who are living in food insecure families are more likely to suffer with their education. When children do not have enough to eat, they are less likely to achieve their development goals on time or achieve their potential at school.
These is a callous and cold decision by Norfolk County Council’s Conservative Cabinet – the only Council within our area to refuse such support this Easter. What a badge of shame.
Councillor Stuart Terry (Labour)
Thetford Boudica Ward
Fairfields, Thetford