00:01The cost of school dinners is rising in South Tyneside, with campaigners warning families
00:05could struggle to afford them. The council has approved reducing its subsidy to 80 pence
00:10per meal, pushing the price from £3 to £3.50. 46% of children in the borough qualify for
00:17free school meals, but families just above the eligibility threshold could be left facing
00:21higher bills.
00:23Foodbank founder Angie Comerford says the increase will put more pressure on charities.
00:28Key Community says the extra cost for an average two-person family could reach £500 a year.
00:36The council says the changes are needed to keep services financially sustainable.
