Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner launches Blackpool Free School Meal support over half-term

Lancashire’s Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner has launched an online fundraiser to help raise support for Blackpool families who will no longer get free school meals.
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Chris Webb has launched the fundraiser following a vote in the House of Commons on Wednesday in which MPs including Blackpool South MP Scott Benton voted against extending free school meals in the school holidays, including the upcoming October half term and Christmas.

The petition was started by Manchester United and England player Marcus Rashford, following a successful campaign over the summer holidays to keep the free school meals in place.

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Nearly 40 per cent of all pupils in Blackpool are eligible for free school meals and since March there has been a 21 per cent increase in registrations.

Chris Webb has launched a fundraiser in response to the House of Commons vote last night.Chris Webb has launched a fundraiser in response to the House of Commons vote last night.
Chris Webb has launched a fundraiser in response to the House of Commons vote last night.

Chris said: "After I saw the government voted against extending free school meals in the school holidays, I knew right away this would have a devastating impact on thousands of families in Blackpool.

Blackpool Council announced just this week they’ve seen an increase of 21 per cent in free school meal registrations since March and now thousands of children are at risk of going hungry over the holidays.

“In the past I’ve organised food collections for Blackpool Food Bank, however with the pandemic getting worse I felt an online collection was the safest way. I’ve been overwhelmed by the support with nearly £3,000 donated within 24 hours of launching the fundraiser.

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“I know it’s a hard time to ask for money, and I do understand many may not be able to give much. But if you can help, Blackpool Food Bank and local families could use your support."

Go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/blackpoolfb to donate to the fundraiser.