Aberdeen City Council will write off more than £400,000 of school meal debt accrued by parents and carers up until March 31, 2024.
In a bid to help families experiencing severe financial pressures, the local authority will wipe out a debt totalling £411,977.90 as part of its commitment to help tackle child poverty.
The city council, along with Scotland’s other 31 local authorities, were able to apply for the emergency one-off fund for debt build-up from a £1.5million pot set up by the Scottish Government.
Councillor Alex McLellan, Convener of the Finance and Resources Committee, said: “Aberdeen City Council is able to write off school meal debts thanks to funding provided by the Scottish Government.
“We are aware a number of families are struggling during this ongoing cost-of-living crisis, so it is positive news that this funding will directly benefit families by clearing their school meals debt.”
Councillor Martin Greig, Convener of the Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “This announcement is very welcome news.
“There are many reasons for falling behind with school meal payments. Financial difficulties can affect many families.
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“I would encourage any parent or carer who is struggling financially to visit the Council website for information about school meals.
“There is information on entitlement to free school meals and other useful details. School meals are important for young people. We have to offer as much help and support as possible.”
A 2022 study commissioned by Aberlour Children’s Charity found more than £1million was owed by families across Scotland for school meals.
Further information on school meals in Aberdeen is available on the council website.