Food vouchers are being given out this week to support families in Oldham over half-term.

Oldham Council say the vouchers will be available to children eligible for means tested Free School Meals, families on low incomes with pre-school children age 0-5 (using Free School Meal eligibility criteria), and for Care Leavers under 25.

Young people eligible for Free School Meals at Oldham College and Oldham Sixth Form College will also be supported.

Families do not need to apply for the vouchers, and the council is working with Oldham schools and colleges to identify eligible families and issue the vouchers through an online system.

The families with pre-school children and care leavers will be written to directly with the vouchers.

Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said: "Parents should never have to worry about how to feed their children, so this half-term we're once again making sure young people in need get access to these vital food vouchers.

“I know this is a difficult time for many and this scheme is only part of how we're here to help. We’re doing everything we can to support those in need including providing assistance for heating homes, offering debt advice and giving out local welfare support to help those in emergency situations by providing them with essential goods and supplies.”

For any families that are really struggling for food and provisions over the school holiday, visit www.oldham.gov.uk/wecanhelp which lists financial support and benefits that are available for residents.

For people in emergency need, there is the Oldham Council emergency helpline - 0161 770 7007.

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