We know that national increases in the cost of living can be very challenging and place increased stress on families. There are lots of different types of support available locally for our families, and information about these can be found below, in the following areas - simply scroll down. Support for Children & Families - Community Spaces - Emergency Food Supplies - Finances, Budgeting & Debt Advice
Support for Children & Families
Free School Meals As an infant school, all of our school meals are free for children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2. However, should you be eligible, it is worth making an application for Free School Meals status as this can help with, for example, supporting you with food vouchers in the school holidays and providing the school with additional funding through the Pupil Premium Grant. In our school we use this grant in a variety of ways to provide your child with additional learning and extra-curricular support. You can check the details here for How to qualify How to apply Or just go to this page on the Kingston Council website.
Growbaby Surbiton organisation Growbaby provides good quality, new and second-hand, baby clothes and equipment (up to 5 years), completely free of charge, to anyone who needs it, regardless of their income, background, or faith. They accept baby clothes and equipment from anyone who chooses to donate; they simply ask that potential donors ensure that they are in excellent, clean condition. Details can be found here.
The Family Fund This fund helps families with disabled children - if a child or young person has additional clothing needs, for example, if they go through clothes quickly, or their clothing is frequently damaged. You can find out more here.
NHS Healthy Start A Healthy Start Card will help with buying healthy food and milk. You may be eligible if you are more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4 years old. You must be receiving any of the following:
Free Childcare from 15 to 30 hours a week for 3 and 4 years old There is a universal entitlement for all children of 3 and 4 years old, but this can be extended to 30 hours a week for working families who are eligible. To check your eligibility and apply on the government website, go to www.gov.uk/30-hours-free-childcare. Please contact our school office directly for more information regarding our 15 and 30 hour Nursery provision.
Children's Centres within Kingston
Kingston Town Children’s Centre 020 8481 0640
Chessington Children’s Centre 020 8397 2006 option 5.
Old Malden Children’s Centre 020 8241 0837
Tolworth Children’s Centre 020 8339 9848
For more information, contact: Sophie Hodges (07849 305143) or Siobhan Meacher (07784 006661), Lead Outreach Workers
Community Spaces
Community Spaces Locations and Map Kingston have a network of warm spaces identified in partnership with organisations within the voluntary and community sector. You can find these warm spaces across the borough identified on this interactive map. The map also shows full details of services available and other support centres including Kingston Foodbanks (5 locations), Donation Points and Kingston Citizens' Advice. For opening times of other Warm Spaces - please contact them directly.
Emergency Food Supplies
Kingston Foodbank We are an authorised supplier of emergency food bank vouchers for our families. If you find yourself in need, please do approach the school for our discrete support. You will be able to take your foodbank voucher to the nearest food bank centre - you can find a list of your local centres and opening times on Connected Kingston.
Finances, Budgeting & Debt Advice
Help to increase your monthly income
Turn2Us - a national charity providing practical help to people who are struggling financially. Try out their benefits calculator or call the helpline on 0808 802 2000
Household Support Fund The Government has made additional funding available for low-income households in Kingston who meet the criteria and who are struggling to afford food, fuel, utility bills and other essentials. You can apply yourself or ask a professional/someone who supports you to apply on your behalf. For more information, including the eligibility criteria, please visit our Household Support Fund webpages.
Managing your household budgetKnowing how much money you have coming in each month, and where you need to spend it, can help you to keep on top of all your household expenses and prepare for any unexpected extra costs.
Money Helper - provides an online budget planner where you can keep a record of your spending, a breakdown of your finances by category and personalised tips to help you effectively manage your money. Find out more information online.
Debt Free London - funded by the Money and Pensions Service, they provide free, expert advice either in person, via phone, whatsapp or video chat. Call 0800 808 5700