School meal debt, accrued by parents and carers, up until 31 March 2024, is to be written off to help families already experiencing severe financial pressures, Aberdeen City Council announced today (6 January 2025).
The Council will wipe out the debt totalling £411,977.90 as part of its commitment to help tackle child poverty.
Aberdeen City Council along with the other 31 local authorities in Scotland were able to apply to the emergency one-off fund for debt built-up to 31 March 2024 from a £1.5 million fund set up by the Scottish Government.
Councillor Alex McLellan, Convener of the Finance and Resources Committee, said: “Aberdeen City Council is able to write off school meal debts thanks to funding provided by the Scottish Government.
“We are aware a number of families are struggling during this ongoing cost-of-living crisis, so it is positive news that this funding will directly benefit families by clearing their school meals debt.”
Councillor Martin Greig, Convener of the Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “This announcement is very welcome news. There are many reasons for falling behind with school meal payments. Financial difficulties can affect many families.
“I would encourage any parent or carer who is struggling financially to visit the Council website for information about school meals. There is information on entitlement to free school meals and other useful details. School meals are important for young people. We have to offer as much help and support as possible."
A 2022 study commissioned by Aberlour Children’s Charity found more than £1m was owed by families across Scotland for school meals.
Information on school meals including a Frequently Asked Questions section is available on the council website.