Local Senedd Member Encourages Parents to apply for School Support Package

Llanelli’s Member of the Senedd, Lee Waters, is urging eligible families to apply for the Welsh Government’s Pupil Development Grant.

The grant is part of a £3.3m funding package to help families with the cost-of-living crisis. Now children in all years from reception right through to Year 11 are eligible for the grant.

The grant is available to families whose children are eligible for free school meals. Eligible families can apply for the grant of £125 per learner. £200 will be awarded for those learners entering year 7, as the Welsh Government recognises the increased costs associated with starting secondary school.

Lee Waters MS said:
“The increase in the cost of living is putting extreme pressure on families in our local community. For many the additional cost associated with going to school can be a real concern.”

“I am encouraging anyone who feels they are eligible to contact their local authority and apply for the grant. Funding for the 2021 to 2022 scheme will close on 30 June 2022. The 2022 to 2023 scheme will then open in the Summer of 2022.”

“Tackling the impact of poverty on learner attainment is a key priority for the Welsh Government. By investing in the PDG Access Grant we are helping to remove one of the barriers and supporting young people and their families.”

“We need to make sure that finances are not a barrier to children and their access to activities in school. We want to make sure that each individual is able to take part in the same activities as their peers and are given the support they need to reach their full potential.”

This Pupil Development Grant has been announced in addition to the Welsh Government’s package of expanded measures to help people with the cost-of-living crisis. This includes a £150 cost-of-living payment and an extra £200 for low-income households through the Winter Fuel Payment next winter.