£90 boost available to help families buy food over the summer holidays

14,000 eligible children will receive a food voucher worth £15 per week.

The scheme is being funded through the county council’s Household Support Fund (HSF) from £3.6 million of Department of Work and Pension money.

County Councillor Lee Breckon, the lead member for resources, said: "Everywhere you look it is obvious that vulnerable people in Leicestershire are feeling the bite of the cost-of-living crisis.

"We, as a council, cannot control some of the major economic factors pushing up costs but we are in a position to help families who may be finding things harder than others."

Schools and early years settings have already started issuing vouchers to eligible families ahead of the end of term tomorrow.

Alongside the meal vouchers, some children and young people are eligible to access up to 16-holiday club sessions over the summer free of charge.

The sessions will offer a variety of activities, including sports, music, arts and other exciting opportunities to learn and develop new skills, alongside a nutritious meal each day.