More than 5,500 Island children will be given food vouchers this Christmas.

The vouchers will be handed out by nurseries, pre-schools, childminders, schools and colleges.

The Isle of Wight Council says the scheme will help Island families in need - those most impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Each eligible household will receive a voucher (per child) worth £15 per week, which can be used at a range of supermarkets.

Councillor Paul Brading, Cabinet member for children's services, education and skills, said “We can help to ensure that no Isle of Wight child should go hungry over the Christmas and new year holidays.

"There will be a further announcement next week about a range of further community based provision to support families over the winter.”

The scheme is being funded via the Winter Grant Scheme, awarded by the Department for Work and Pensions.

Government made a u-turn last month, following a high-profile national campaign, led by footballer Marcus Rashford.

On the Isle of Wight, the scheme will also to be extended over the February 2021 half-term week.

Who is eligible?

  • Families whose children get free school meals
  • Children being supported by a social worker
  • Children receiving early help services across the Island
  • Two to four year olds accessing childcare and eligible for Early Years Pupil Premium
  • Sixteen to 18 year olds who were previously eligible for free school meals

The Isle of Wight Council says it has enough funding to support the Island's care leavers and young carers.

It will also provide schools and colleges with a discretionary grant fund, for families who may not be immediately eligible for the voucher scheme but find themselves struggling financially — for example, where a parent has lost their job due to Covid-19.

Schools can use these grants to help families with food and other essential items, such as energy cards/tokens to pay fuel bills.

Councillor Brading added: “I would like to thank all our education providers for helping us to reach those in need of this support.

"They know their children, young people and families best so are far better placed to distribute the vouchers. With their assistance, we can help to ensure that vulnerable children don’t go without necessities like food and heating over the winter.”

Are you facing financial difficulties this Christmas? Speak to your early years or childcare provider, school or college.

The matter will be handled in the strictest of confidence, said the council.