Change in Funding Ends School Holiday Food Vouchers
Families eligible for benefit-related free school meals will no longer automatically receive supermarket vouchers during school holidays. Bracknell Forest Council announced it had made the "difficult" decision following government changes to the funding system supporting families facing financial hardship.
The Household Support Fund (HSF), introduced in 2021, has been discontinued by the government and replaced with a new Crisis Resilience Fund (CRF). The council stated it could not specify how many families would be impacted but assured that the new fund would be used "as effectively as possible."
For the financial year 2026/27, Bracknell Forest Council will receive just under £907,000 from the CRF, a slight decrease from the £979,000 it obtained from the HSF in 2025/26.
Purpose and Impact of the Crisis Resilience Fund
The CRF enables councils to provide financial assistance to individuals experiencing sudden financial shocks, such as unexpected expenses or income loss. Examples include a broken boiler, job loss, or measures to prevent individuals from entering a crisis situation.
Overall, funding levels to councils across England from the CRF are broadly similar to the previous scheme, although some councils, including Bracknell, have experienced slight reductions.
Council Responses and Support Programs
Cllr Paul Bidwell, cabinet member for economy and regeneration, emphasized the council's ongoing commitment to supporting local families facing financial difficulties.
"During the holidays, we continue to offer free or low cost activities through the holiday activities and food programme (HAF)," he said.
"This Easter, there are a range of HAF activities available, including sports, swimming, theatre, dance, arts and crafts."
The council also indicated that additional information regarding the conclusion of the school holiday voucher scheme would be provided "in due course."
Funding Changes in Other Councils
Wokingham Council reported a funding reduction of approximately £300,000, noting this "would inevitably mean the funding would not stretch as far as last year." However, the council did not confirm whether its voucher scheme would continue.
Reading Borough Council and Slough Borough Council stated they have yet to decide on the future of their school holiday voucher schemes, although their funding levels have largely remained stable.
West Berkshire Council affirmed its commitment to delivering the HAF program for families until the end of the current funding agreement in March 2029.
The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead has also been approached for comment but no response has been provided at this time.
Government Statement on the Crisis Resilience Fund
A Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) spokesperson commented on the new funding arrangement:
"The £1bn Crisis and Resilience fund will act as a genuine safety net helping to prevent families from falling into crises which could see them become dependent on the welfare state longer term.
Local authorities will design their schemes with the needs of their area in mind, and this can include using the fund for Free School Meals during school holidays if they feel that is where support is needed."
