An independent report into Sheffield City Council’s handling and management of Freedom of Information Requests relating to both its historic management of street trees and general requests has been published today.
Winter support for thousands of Sheffield’s children made available
Families with children that are eligible for benefit related free school meals will receive a free £30 voucher this week to help with the costs of food over the winter holidays.
Those who claim income assessed Early Years Support (2 to 4 year olds) and young people leaving their care setting (Care Leavers) are also eligible, meaning over 31,000 children across Sheffield will receive vital support this winter.
Sheffield City Council recognises that many families continue to face financial difficulties because of the cost-of-living crisis, with the winter holidays being a particularly difficult time. The vouchers will be funded through the government’s Household Support Fund that allows local council’s to directly help those who need it most.
People do not need to apply to the scheme. Those who are eligible for the voucher will receive a letter from the council with details on how to redeem their voucher this week. There is also a short ‘how to’ video here.
Alongside the vouchers, there will also be a range of free holiday activities available for eligible children and families to join in as part of the Sheffield Healthy Holidays scheme.
Sheffield Healthy Holidays brings together a huge programme of activities delivered by partners across Sheffield, where a healthy meal will also be available, to keep children healthy and happy over the holidays. Eligible families will also receive details in the letter this week inviting them to take part.
Councillor Terry Fox, Leader of Sheffield City Council said:
“With the cost-of-living sky rocketing, it’s no secret that this winter is going to be tough for us all. But for our families on low incomes the holidays will be a particularly worrisome time as they think about how to keep enough food on the table and their houses sufficiently warm. That’s why I’m so pleased that we can continue this support as we have done for every school holiday since the pandemic began.
“I’d also like to remind anyone who is facing financial hardship or is struggling with debt that the council has lots of different support available. We’ve set up a dedicated Cost of Living webpage full of information about the support on offer, so please do get in touch as we are here to help.”
To find out more about what support is available please visit Cost of living | Sheffield City Council
There is also free advice and support available at https://citizensadvicesheffield.org.uk/or by calling 0808 278 7820.
