Dumfries and Galloway Council has extended its criteria for free school meals to include the children of people who are eligible for Council Tax Reduction, due to low income during the Covid-19 crisis.
The current Scottish Government criteria is:
• Income Support
• Jobseeker’s Allowance (Income based)
• Employment and Support Allowance (Income based)
• Child Tax Credit on its own, with an annual taxable income of less than £16,105 (subject to change)
• Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit with an annual taxable income of less than £6,900 (subject to change)
• Support under Part 6 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• Universal Credit with a monthly earned income of not more than £610
Now, in Dumfries and Galloway, anyone getting a Council Tax reduction, and not currently receiving free school meals, will be entitled to them.
Apply for Council Tax reduction at:
https://www.dumgal.gov.uk/article/15162/Housing-benefit
Anyone not able to apply online, email: [email protected] or t: 030 33 33 3006; leave your name, address and someone will call back.
For delivery or collection of free school meals register at:
https://www.dumgal.gov.uk/article/20674/COVID-19-schools-and-childcare
Obviously, staff are exceptionally busy currently, but calls will be returned and applications processes as quickly as possible.
Council Leader Elaine Murray said: “Local people are currently having to deal with extremely challenging circumstances and our Council is doing all that we can to help and support them through the Covid-19 crisis. Extending our criteria for free school meals will reduce the pressures on many families by ensuring that their children receive a nutritious meal each day.”
Depute Leader Rob Davidson said: “It’s vital that children are fed and that they continue to eat healthily during the Covid-19 crisis. Our Council is determined to reduce the stresses and pressures on hard-pressed people in our region. This initiative will ensure that many local parents and carers have one less thing to worry about.”
