School meals debt to be cleared

FIRST Minister Humza Yousaf has said his Government will set aside cash to wipe out Scotland’s school meal debt, according to reports.

With Finance Secretary Shona Robison set to announce the Budget today, it has been revealed families will get a major boost with an emergency pot – thought to be worth around £1.5 million – to be created for writing off the debt.

The Scottish Greens have campaigned for several years on the issue and are “delighted” with the decision.

According to The Scottish Sun, parents of more than 30,000 kids have been chased for school meal payments, with some councils sending in debt collectors to recoup funds.

Research by the paper revealed a total of £1,763,762 was owed by pupils for their lunches – an increase of 60% on last year’s figure.

Children’s charity Aberlour had warned debt has started to rack up again, leaving stressed families feeling ashamed.

The problem is mainly affecting low-income families who do not qualify for free school meals, which are a means-tested benefit.

In response to a letter sent by The Sun and Aberlour to the First Minister, Yousaf said: “While school meal debt is ultimately a matter for councils, I am conscious of the fact that we are in a midst of a cost of living crisis as a result of Brexit and the UK Government’s disastrous mismanagement of the economy.”

Scottish Greens MSP Ross Greer said the writing off of debt will be a significant weight off families’ shoulders.

He said: “We know young people struggle in school if they’re hungry or stressed by their family being chased for money they cannot afford to pay, so I’m delighted the First Minister has agreed to Scottish Greens proposals to wipe out this debt.”