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Question from: County Councillor Matthew Dorrance Subject: Healthy Start voucher programme
Question:
The Food Justice Finder has collated data that shows in Powys, just 62% of Healthy Start vouchers are claimed. That means every week £1,207 worth of healthy food doesn't reach those who need it.
The scheme provides eligible families (e.g. pregnant people and families with children under age four) with weekly vouchers to buy healthy food like milk, fruit and vegetables so it is important that more is done to improve the take up of these vouchers.
Will the Council work with partners and our communities to improve the take up of the Healthy Start voucher programme and will the Council publish a plan with measurable outcomes to demonstrate its commitment and progress?
Minutes: Response by the Portfolio Holder:
Thank you for your question in relation to the Healthy Start Voucher Programme in Powys. Like you, I am keen to ensure that the Powys residents who need this support are fully aware and able to access the support in a timely way. As you will be aware, this is a scheme which is run and administered by the NHS. We have raised the concerns with PTHB direct. We will work with the local health board to raise awareness of the scheme to improve the take up of the Healthy Start vouchers. We have sought a response to your question from PTHB and will share further details with you when available. It is difficult for the Council to publish a plan with measurable outcomes when the NHS are the lead agency but we are committed to working with Partners to improve up take.
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