Huge demand for Glasgow free meals summer schemes

Two schools in Glasgow have been overwhelmed with the demand for a scheme which saw them stay open to feed children over the summer holidays.

According to Third Force News, up to 60 per cent more families than it was possible to accommodate registered for the free lunches at the schools, which are located in two of the most deprived areas of Glasgow.

80 pupils registered at Dalmarnock Primary, where only 50 places were available, and 60 registered to attend at Ibrox Primary, which only had the capacity for 40.

The Food, Families, Futures (FFF) programme was set up by the Children in Scotland charity to combat food poverty in local communities, as well as provide activities for disadvantaged pupils over summer.

Jackie Brock, chief executive of Children in Scotland, told Third Force News: “For some families, particularly those who receive free school meals, the school holidays can be a struggle.

“It’s not just the inevitable increase in the food bill but the pressures associated with finding appropriate childcare and activities for their children. These are all issues that exacerbate inequality.

“We believe keeping more schools open, free of charge, during the holidays could play a key role in tackling Scotland’s inequality challenge and be at the forefront of measures to reduce the attainment gap.”