Pupils eligible for free school meals will continue to be supported over the summer holiday.

North Ayrshire Council confirmed this week that a voucher system will be put in place for those entitled to free school meals.

The food vouchers will be worth £20 per week - £4 per day – and can be used in a variety of stores including Asda, Tesco, Morrisons and many more. They cannot be used for age-restricted products.

The council has also confirmed it will work with third sector partners and the foodbank to assist those currently in receipt of an emergency community food pack.

Councillor Joe Cullinane, Leader of North Ayrshire Council, said: “We are proud of our holiday school meal initiative. It has gained nationwide respect as it has shown us a leading light in the fight against holiday hunger. No child should suffer, and a warm meal is a basic human right.

“Since lockdown in March, council staff have put in an incredible effort to support our children and vulnerable residents with food packages.

“In addition to the free school meal vouchers, we will continue to provide for our most vulnerable residents and will work with third sector organisations and food banks to ensure nobody misses out.

Since schools were closed and lockdown measures were introduced, North Ayrshire Council has delivered over one million meals to families in receipt of free school meals as well as vulnerable residents.

The council has received around £1.038 million from the Scottish Government to help fund the food packages – and had to access £1.139m of its own resources.