The Welsh Labour Government has confirmed support for families of children who receive free school meals.

Up to £7 million of additional funding will be provided to local authorities to urgently provide financial assistance to families of pupils who rely on free school meals but are unable to receive them due to school closures.

Guidance will be issued to local authorities to make arrangements to ensure children and young people eligible for free school meals receive access to alternative provision.

All local authorities across Wales are making emergency provision for families with meals, including collection facilities from schools, or food delivered to home or community locations.

Local authorities will also have the option of providing gift cards and e-vouchers from local food retailers and distribute them to families. The guidance will be designed to ensure good practice continues.

The measures are intended to be a speedy, but temporary, solution while other options are implemented and a more comprehensive package of support is provided to vulnerable families.