Food vouchers are coming for the Borough's vulnerable families this winter

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council announced food voucher proposals last month and the funding has now been confirmed.

Households with children who are eligible for free school meals will be given an £80 food voucher per child during week commencing November 29.

There's no need to apply for the vouchers, which are being sent to schools to distribute.

An extra £80 will also be given in December to each working age household who have children and receive Council Tax support.

Working age households without any children who receive Council Tax support will receive £60 during December.

The December vouchers will be sent out automatically and will be with eligible residents by Friday, December 17.

The vouchers will be funded by the Government's Household Support Fund.

Councillor Bob Cook, Leader of the Council, said: "With the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic and the rising cost of living, it was absolutely vital that we came forward with this financial support this winter.

"It's great that we can now push on with our proposals and the £80 vouchers per eligible child will be with families very soon.

"It's heartening to know that we can provide a little bit of peace of mind for a number of families ahead of what is set to be a difficult winter.

"Remember, every voucher will be paid automatically so there's no need to apply.