Standing up for our residents

This week saw an important decision by Sutton Council to approve council funds of £270,000 to provide food vouchers to families in need over the whole of the summer holidays. 

This will plug the gap in the funding provided by central government, and means that families across the borough can be safe in the knowledge that they will receive extra help to feed their families over the whole of the six-week summer school holiday period. You can read more about it on our website.

We will also be topping up our funding for the Sutton Foodbank and the Crisis Loan and Grant Scheme for people experiencing hardship so that they can continue to access these vital services. 

Along with the above, we have a fantastic Holiday Activities and Food programme (HAF) over the whole six weeks summer holiday. Filled with fun activities, great food and free to families receiving benefits-related free school meals, including lots of choice for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. Make sure you take a look at what’s on offer at www.sutton.gov.uk/HAF. 

There are also lots of summer activities for children and young people who aren’t in receipt of benefits-linked free school meals, from our Summer Reading Club (details coming soon!), to free activities at leisure centres and public buildings, to free webinars, concerts and art online.

The Sutton Family Information Service also has lots of information about what else is available.

Keep an eye on the Council’s social media channels and website as even more information about our summer programme will be released shortly. 

For now, I hope this commitment of additional support will enable everyone to look forward to the summer and ensure that families who are struggling in these difficult times get the help they need.

Councillor Ruth Dombey