This week in Parliament, I welcomed a major step forward for families across Bolton South and Walkden — with up to 11,450 children in our community now set to benefit from free school meals.
I know from speaking to parents just how much this will help. It’s not just about easing financial pressure at home — it’s about making sure children can focus, thrive, and succeed in school without the barrier of hunger holding them back.
I put this directly to the Schools Minister and asked whether he agreed that this is the kind of support families have needed for years — and whether it shows the Government is finally serious about tackling child poverty and giving every child a fair chance.
The Minister recognised that this move is both pro-learning and anti-poverty — and I’ll continue holding the Government to that standard: to deliver real, lasting support for children who need it most.