Overview

This bill aims to ensure that children in England and Wales have access to free meals and activities during school holidays. It starts with a pilot program in deprived areas before potentially mandating the provision of these services nationwide.

Description

The School Holidays (Meals and Activities) Bill proposes a two-stage approach:

Pilot Programme:

The Secretary of State can establish a pilot program in deprived areas of England, providing free meals and activities during school holidays. This pilot will have defined minimum standards and criteria for participating organisations. The pilot will last a maximum of twelve months, followed by a review.

Mandatory Provision:

Following the pilot review, local authorities in both England and Wales will be legally required to provide free meals and activities to children during school holidays if a request is made. Supermarkets and food manufacturers' surplus food may be used, subject to safety regulations. The bill allows for the setting of national standards and the creation of a support portal for local authorities.

Government Spending

The bill states that any expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State under this Act, and any increase in sums payable under other Acts due to this Act, will be funded by Parliament. No specific figures are provided.

Groups Affected

• Children in England and Wales, particularly those in deprived areas: They will directly benefit from access to free meals and activities during school holidays.
• Local Authorities in England and Wales: They will have a legal duty to facilitate and coordinate the provision of meals and activities, potentially increasing their workload and expenditure.
• Supermarkets and Food Manufacturers: They may have opportunities to donate surplus food to aid the program.
• Organisations providing activities and meals: They will need to meet standards set by the bill.
• UK Government: Will incur costs related to the program and its administration.

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