UP to £7 million of extra cash will be provided to councils in Wales to urgently provide financial assistance to families of pupils who rely on free school meals, but are unable to receive them due to school closures.

The money is coming from the Welsh Government, and guidance will be issued to councils to make arrangements to ensure children and young people eligible for free school meals receive access to alternative provision.

All councils in Wales have begun making emergency provision for families with meals, including collection facilities from schools, or food delivered to home or community locations.

Councils will also have the option of providing gift cards and e-vouchers from local food retailers and distribute them to families. The guidance will be designed to ensure good practice continues.

The measures are intended to be a speedy, but temporary, solution while other options are implemented and a more comprehensive package of support is provided to vulnerable families.

“I have been clear that while we take decisive and essential action to fight the coronavirus, we must not forget children for whom school provides much more than their education," said education minister Kirsty Williams.

“It is vital that children who receive free school meals are able to continue to benefit from this support during this period of uncertainty.

“I have already informed local authorities of this additional funding, which will allow them to address immediate needs at a local level - and at pace - so support can get to children and families who need it most.”