A Scottish Government Food Fund has been set up to help families with children eligible for free school meals. The fund will also support older people, those with a long term health condition and pregnant women.

The £30million fund is being managed by local authorities and it will be up to each council as to how it is distributed.

Orkney has been allocated £90,000. The Scottish Government has produced guidance to assist Local Authorities in the fund’s distribution.

Councillor Stephen McCabe,COSLA Children and Young People spokesperson  said:

“Access to food is a current and vital concern for many people in our communities. Councils are committed to working flexibly, ensuring local access for those who are vulnerable or isolating and to maintain access to free school meals for entitled families.

“Local Authorities will continue to work with and for local people to ensure provision that is right for them. We welcome the food fund guidance produced by Scottish Government that supports this local decision making.”

Local MSP Maree Todd,SNP, who is also the Minister for Children and Young People said:

“Coronavirus has brought enormous disruption to all of our lives, and some people will be concerned about accessing food.

“This investment will help those in Orkney at most risk, such as older people and children eligible for free school meals, to access food through this unprecedented crisis.

“Free school meals are vital for families across Orkney and are an important way of ensuring children receive the nutritious food they need. That is why it is so important that support continues while schools remain closed.

“This is just one part of the support the Scottish Government is providing to individuals and businesses to protect jobs and incomes.”

Listed are the allocations for all of Scotland’s local authorities.