A selection of fruit and vegetables on a market stall. There is a variety of types and the image is very colourful. Picture by Dean Xavier
The Healthy Start scheme provides vouchers which can be used for fresh or frozen fruit and vegetables, as well as milk and infant formula. Picture: Dean Xavier

Hull families could be missing out on food vouchers

Families in Hull have been urged to check whether they qualify for vouchers to help fund healthy essentials.

The Healthy Start scheme provides up to £24.80 a month per child aged under one and £12.40 per child aged from one to four, which can be used for fresh or frozen fruit and vegetables, as well as milk and infant formula.

Recipients also receive vouchers for vitamins designed for children and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Joanne Arro, commissioning and service development manager for Hull City Council, said: “This means-tested scheme is designed to help families with young children have access to healthy foods, whether fresh or frozen.

“The coronavirus pandemic has meant huge changes for all of us and it’s important to try to eat a healthy varied diet to keep healthy and to keep your immune system strong.

“Healthy Start vouchers have to be used with local retailers, which makes them particularly useful at a time many of us are shopping close to home.

“If you’re pregnant or have a child under four and receive certain benefits, you can apply online. Pregnant women and children over one get £3.10 per week and babies up to one year get £6.20 per week”.

Since April 6, due to the coronavirus pandemic a health professional no longer needs to countersign the application and you can apply directly online here.

A diver feeds stingrays at The Deep.
Fly-tipping in Alaska Street