Above: Councillor Peter Cannon and Carrie Matthews, Executive Headteacher at Willen Primary School, whose school has used the extra funding to help families access essential items and opportunities
Milton Keynes City Council has helped 31 schools across the city deliver projects for families facing financial pressures, with more than £75,000 of government funding allocated to date.
The schools have used the money to provide practical essentials to families in need such as winter coats and shoes, food, and equipment to help children study. This extra support means students can take part in school life and overcome barriers created by the rising cost of living.
"Schools are often the first to notice when families are struggling and are uniquely placed to provide assistance that can make a real difference. Through this funding, we've been able to back 24 schools across Milton Keynes, enabling them to provide practical help and opportunities that benefit children both in and out of the classroom. Whether it's helping families with essentials, reducing barriers to attendance or creating opportunities for children to thrive, these projects are making a positive impact in our communities."
“The funding we received has made a real and lasting difference to some of our families. It enabled us to provide practical help where it was needed most, including warm winter coats, school shoes and support with transport costs, ensuring children could continue attending school without disruption. We were also able to provide food and personal hygiene packages to those families facing significant challenges.”
Central Government funds such as Household Support Fund, and the new Crisis Resilience Fund, which are both designed to help households with the basics, have been allocated to support the scope and delivery of these projects.
Schools can still apply for up to £2,500 per project, with funding to be spent on practical assistance for children and families. The City Council is particularly interested in projects that reach children from families who don’t qualify for Free School Meals yet need additional assistance.
Schools interested in applying or finding out more about the funding can contact: Sharon.Machin@milton-keynes.gov.uk