MORE money will be provided to the county to help struggling families and vulnerable children during the winter.

Worcestershire County Council said it will be receiving around £1.6 million from the government's Covid Winter Grant Scheme to support some of the hardest-hit and provide food for children who need it during school holidays.

The funding will be ring-fenced, with at least 80 per cent helping people with food and bills, and will cover the period to the end of March next year.

Councillor Marcus Hart, cabinet member for education and skills, said: “I very much welcome the Government announcement to make provision for free schools meals this Christmas.

"Obviously, Worcestershire County Council will receive its share of the £170 million grant and we will ensure that no child goes hungry.

“I also welcome the wider scheme right through next year up to Christmas 2021.

"This clearly demonstrates a compassionate Government and one that is prepared to listen."

The move by the government to provide extra money follows the campaign by Manchester United and England footballer Marcus Rashford to prevent children from going hungry during school holidays by extending free school meals throughout half term.

Dozens of city businesses stepped up by agreeing to feed children during half term last month.

The council supports the Ready, Steady, Worcestershire initiative which combines the efforts of a range of agencies and food banks that provide a community response to holiday hunger.

All district councils are providing welfare support services.

Anyone still in need of help should contact Here2Help Worcestershire through the county council's website at www.worcestershire.gov.uk/here2help or by calling 01905 768053.