WEST Dunbartonshire Council has been given more than £330,000 to continue providing free school meals over the summer holidays.

The funding from the Scottish Government will ensure that children in Clydebank who receive free lunches will have access to them to help low income families during the Covid-19 pandemic.

WDC received £337,000 to support the continued provision of free school meals and a further £295,000 for the wider provision of food support.

Clydebank’s MSP, Gil Paterson, said: “We know that this pandemic has put real financial pressure on families.

“Free school meals are vital for families and an important way of ensuring their children receive the nutritious food they need. That is why it is so important that support continues while schools remain closed.

“This extra support will make a huge difference to children and their families in Clydebank and and help to ensure the most vulnerable people in our society receive support during this pandemic.”

Individuals who are unable to access or afford food and cannot get help from family, friends or neighbours are encouraged to call the national assistance helpline free on 0800 111 4000.