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LGA responds to IPPR report on support for children during coronavirus
Cllr Judith Blake, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Children and Young People Board, responded to the IPPR’s ‘Children of the Pandemic’ report
“Extra support for children and their families is being rapidly developed and provided by councils during this coronavirus outbreak.
“We are pleased that government has agreed that a significant amount of new hardship funding can be used flexibly by councils on local pressures and priorities, including on helping those who are most vulnerable.
“Councils are looking at different ways of helping families with children, such as removing financial liabilities, making sure that they are appropriately housed and continuing to provide vital welfare advice and safety net support.
“Children who are eligible for free school meals are also being supported, such as through keeping school canteens open and working with volunteers and communities to distribute food to families, as part of a wider partnership across government, charities, food shops and suppliers.
“Councils also continue to meet the needs of vulnerable children and families, including children in and on the edge of care, through dedicated work with families and support for children’s homes and foster carers.”
Notes
The LGA is constantly liaising with Public Health England and the Government regarding the evolving situation with the outbreak of the coronavirus, raising issues on behalf of our member councils. Our online hub features the latest Covid-19 information for councils and is regularly updated.