Families whose children receive a free school meal because of low family income, will receive £100 per child directly into their bank account during the last week in January.

Councillor Frank McNally, chair of the Tackling Poverty Group, said: “The ongoing economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic is having a devastating effect on so many people in our communities and that’s why we are determined to do everything we can to provide direct support.

“We recognise the unprecedented challenges people are facing – whether it’s through debt, increased food costs, additional fuel costs or other factors. We hope this payment helps to alleviate some of these pressures.

“January is an especially difficult time of the year and the North Lanarkshire Child Payment of £100 per child aims to support families in the greatest need. In addition we are also supporting families at weekends and the holidays with our innovative Club365 food voucher scheme as well as providing vouchers to cover the cost of lunches during the current lockdown.”

The Tackling Poverty Group chose to use the Financial Insecurity Support funding from the Scottish Government to provide direct support families during the pandemic.

Payments will be made automatically, and parents/guardians do not need to apply.

However, if you have not received a payment by mid-February, please email NLChildPayment@northlan.gov.uk

If your family’s circumstances have changed recently and you would like to apply for your child to receive a free school meal please visit the website.

The North Lanarkshire Child Payment is only for families who qualify through low incomes and not for families whose children in P1-P3 who automatically qualify for free school meals through universal provision.