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<p>During the period of national lockdown, schools should continue to provide meal
options for all pupils who are in school. Meals should be available free of charge
to all infant pupils and pupils who are eligible for benefits-related free school
meals who are in school. Schools should also continue to provide free school meal
support to pupils who are eligible for benefits related free school meals and who
are learning at home. Schools are free to decide the best approach for their free
school meal pupils. They can provide lunch parcels, locally arranged vouchers, or
they can use the national voucher scheme which re-opened on Monday 18 January 2021.</p><p>
</p><p>As was the case over Christmas, vulnerable children and families can continue
to receive support for food and other essentials over February half-term via councils
through the £170 million COVID Winter Grant Scheme launched last year. Local authorities
understand which groups need support and are best placed to ensure appropriate holiday
support is provided. This is why the £170 million COVID Winter Grant Scheme will be
distributed by them, rather than schools, who will continue providing support for
disadvantaged children during term-time. Families who need support should speak to
their local authority.</p><p> </p><p> </p>
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