STATISTICS have shown the number of children in Barnsley eligible for free school meals are at their highest on record.
In May 2022, the number of children eligible stood at 9,593, a 26.1 per cent increase on the previous year.
Commenting on the increase, MP for Barnsley East Stephanie Peacock said: “It is unacceptable that 30 per cent of children grow up in food poverty in Barnsley.
“We are seeing the number of children eligible for free school meals at consistently high numbers. Barnsley Council can offer support through their Healthy Holidays scheme.”
Families can check if they are available for the scheme via the council website.
