Becca Lyon, Head of UK Poverty Campaigns and Save the Children, said:
“School and nursery closures in England, while an important measure, will have significant impact on families – particularly those already struggling on low incomes. It is welcome news that the UK government have today set out measures to ensure children receiving free school meals continue to receive that support whilst at home in England, as free school meals are a lifeline for many.
“This is an incredibly stressful time for parents, particularly those on low incomes. The UK Government must urgently put forward a package of measures to support struggling parents who lose their job, have to take unpaid leave or reduce their hours.
“The risk to children's learning is huge, especially for children in low-income families, who already tend to do less well at school. Save the Children will be urgently working with partners and governments across the UK to identify how best to support these families, focusing on families with younger children given the importance of early learning.”
For interviews please contact media@savethechildren.org.uk
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