East Sussex's decision to stop issuing vouchers for free school meals during the holidays has been defended by council leaders who say central government funding and existing local schemes will provide support for families in need.
Government fund described as a safety net
A Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson pointed to the new £1bn Crisis Resilience Fund, describing it as a measure designed to prevent families from entering prolonged dependence on the benefits system. The department also said local authorities have discretion over how they use the funding and may choose to allocate it to holiday meals where appropriate.
"The £1bn Crisis Resilience Fund would act as a 'safety net helping to prevent families from falling into crises which could see them become dependent on the welfare state longer term'."
The council has highlighted that over the summer children who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals can also access support through the county's participation in the Holiday Activity and Food programme (HAF). That scheme offers free activities and meals during school holidays, and is aimed at families receiving certain means-tested benefits.
What the council says and what it means locally
Council spokespeople emphasised the need to target resources at those facing the most serious financial hardship, saying funding must align with the stated purpose of the new government scheme. The official comment from the council referred to this principle without outlining an immediate replacement voucher scheme.
- £1bn — value of the Crisis Resilience Fund at national level, according to the DWP.
- Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) — local programme offering free meals and activities over summer to children eligible for benefits-related free school meals.
- Local authorities retain discretion to use government funding for holiday meals where they judge it necessary.
| Fund / Programme | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Crisis Resilience Fund (£1bn) | Intended as a safety net to prevent families entering longer-term welfare dependence; local allocations are flexible. |
| Holiday Activity and Food programme | Provides free meals and activities during school holidays for children eligible for benefits-related free school meals. |
The council's position raises questions for families who relied on vouchers in past holiday periods: while HAF provides structured provision during the summer, it does not necessarily replicate the immediate purchasing flexibility that vouchers offered. The council has not set out changes to assistance outside the HAF timetable.
Local campaigners and some parents have previously argued that vouchers were a straightforward way to ensure children had access to food during school closures. Council leaders counter that public money must be directed to those in the most acute need and that the new national fund gives councils scope to make those judgements.
Residents seeking clarity on entitlements and local arrangements for holiday support are advised to contact their local authority or check official county council communications for updates on how Crisis Resilience Fund allocations will be used locally.
This report will be updated as the council or the Department for Work and Pensions releases further details about local spending decisions and any alternative provision for families previously receiving holiday vouchers.
