More breakfast clubs in Coventry to help families

FROM April, an additional half a million children will benefit from the Best Start free breakfast clubs, providing tangible relief to families grappling with the escalating cost of living while also investing in the bedrock of future economic growth.

- By RACHEL STRETTON

Applications are open for 448 more schools in the West Midlands, including Coventry, where 40% of pupils receive free school meals. This is part of the government's £80 million investment to ensure every child gets the best start in life - acknowledging that a healthy, well-educated population is crucial for a flourishing economy.

This initiative provides immediate assistance to working parents struggling with childcare costs by saving them up to £450 and freeing up to 95 hours of time - equivalent to over two and a half working weeks each year. This puts money back into pockets and time back into busy schedules, aiding families with the cost of living whilst ensuring children are prepared to learn and succeed.

The government has raised the per child funding rate for mainstream schools to £1, fulfilling its promise to roll out clubs offering a range of healthy meals. Schools will also receive a guaranteed £25 a day to cover staffing and admin, enabling all types of schools to easily run a breakfast club.

For an average school with 50% participation, the total funding package has increased by 28%.