South West families that have been hardest hit by the pandemic and need extra support this winter with food and bills will benefit from a £15.2million funding boost for the region. 

The government’s Covid Winter Grant Scheme will see councils across England share £170million in additional, ring-fenced funding to help vulnerable families and individuals.

This will prevent children from going hungry this winter and ensure local families get the help they need.

It builds on the £63million already provided to councils this year to assist those struggling to buy food and essentials.

A further £220million will be invested in extending the Holiday and Food Programme until next Christmas, meaning that all children eligible for Free School Meals will have the option to join a holiday-time programme that provides healthy food and fun activities during the summer, Christmas and Easter holidays next year.

Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey said: “We want to make sure vulnerable people are cared for throughout this difficult time and, above all, no one should go hungry or be unable to pay their bills this winter.

“We know this has been a challenging time for many and we have consistently supported the lowest-paid families, protecting 9 million jobs with furlough and boosting welfare support by £9.3billion.

“This package builds on that support by extending our successful Holiday Activities and Food programme as well as funding a £170million Covid Winter Grant Scheme to ensure families get the help they need.”

Cornwall Council's share of the Covid Winter Grant Scheme is £1,831,567.30.