'No one should go hungry' declares Wigan Council leader

In response to the national story of inadequate food parcels being delivered to families across the country, the leader of Wigan Council, Coun David Molyneux said: “We believe no-one should go hungry, which is why we’ve been working hard to ensure our welfare offer puts our most vulnerable families and individuals first.

“Since the pandemic began, the council and its voluntary and community sector partners have delivered thousands of food parcels. This winter we also contacted all of our families in receipt of free school meals to see if they needed additional support to cover the costs of food and utilities. In total, we distributed more than £500,000 in government grants direct to these families.

“In response to the national reports and images of inadequate food parcels circulating online, we’d like to reassure residents that there is additional support available if they’re struggling.

“Our schools food provider, Metrofresh, provides catering for the majority of our schools and over the last week our team has worked hard to provide more than 1,000 food parcels until the national voucher scheme begins again next week. Schools know their families best and will work with them on the best food provision offer for them.

“It is up to individual schools who they use as their catering provider, but Metrofresh is committed to ensuring all schools they work with have adequate supplies, compliant with government guidance, to support families with nutritious food.

“The picture below shows an example of the food boxes being delivered to our families via Metrofresh, which includes enough food for 10 lunches."

For anyone in need of welfare support in Wigan borough, click here for more information and get in touch if you need help.

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