Feeding families when self-isolating
This term, we have seen schools fully open for the first time since closures where announced mid-March, in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Since then, we have adapted and flexed our school meals operation, adjusting to the changing needs and requirements that schools have.
One of the requirements is to ensure that those eligible for Free School Meals are able to access food whilst self-isolating in response to following Government and Public Health guidelines to help limit the spread of Covid. This may be in response to school bubble closures, or families needing to self-isolate, or when someone is awaiting a test result.
We have worked with schools to create a smooth process to provided a combination of packed lunches, and for most families, two-week grocery boxes, enabling families at home to still create healthy lunches for their children. We know how vital Free School Meals is as a scheme for many children, and the benefits are vast; both nutritionally, and academically.
Working closely with our suppliers, we have curated a grocery box and enabled at-home delivery for 660 pupils across the City this term. An equivalent of 6,375 meals since September. Sarah Doling, Food Development Manager explains: "Its important to ensure that those eligible for Free School Meals are still able to access good food, despite the requirement to self-isolate in response to Covid. We devised a grocery box to support families during this time, matching Government nutritional guidelines, to enable a variety of lunches to be prepared for at home. We have also included a few recipe cards to give families an idea of what meals they might like to make. We hope that in a stressful time, its taken a little bit of the pressure of for families""
"Thanks again for all your help. Parents have been blown away by the magnificent process and service!" - Business Manager at Banister Primary
This is just one way (of many!) that we have adapted our school meals service in 2020. We know that the changes and challenges will continue into 2021 as we navigate a new tier system, Christmas bubbling, and the relaxation of national restrictions amidst the usual winter pressures. We continue to stand by our moto of Food for Good.