More Barnsley families on their way to getting five a day

Latest news in Yorkshire: October 30, 2017 11:51:53 AM

More families on low incomes who have young children are set to benefit, as Barnsley’s Rose Voucher scheme expands.

The scheme, which helps young families make and afford healthy choices while supporting the local markets where the vouchers can be spent, will now operate in the Dearne and South areas of the borough.

A launch will take place on Tuesday, 31 October, 11.30am to 12.30pm at Wombwell Family Centre, Bondfield Close. Families are invited to attend and check their eligibility. Information on farm to fork sessions will also be available.

This follows a successful pilot which launched in December last year in the Central Area. Some 150 families are involved and 80 per cent regularly attend the pick-up points to collect their vouchers.

By registering for the scheme people can not only receive £3 of fruit and veg vouchers per week but also have the opportunity to become more involved at their local family centre, get access to skills and knowledge around cooking with fresh ingredients and have access to information and activities which support a healthy lifestyle.

It’s also a great way to meet other local families and parents.

Cllr Tim Cheetham. Cabinet Spokesperson for People (Achieving Potential) said: “These vouchers will support more families to adopt healthier lifestyles in the crucial years before school starts. The additional support from Family Centres such as cooking classes will also help them develop the skills and confidence to provide their families with the healthiest start.”

In the Dearne and South areas, voucher pick-up points will be at Wombwell Family Centre, Thurnscoe Family Centre and the Salvation Army Community Centre in Goldthorpe, as well as the area next to the Better Barnsley Shop in Barnsley town centre, near the entrance to the Alhambra.

The vouchers can be used at fruit and veg stalls in Wombwell, Goldthorpe and Wombwell markets. Online delivery options are also available and information about this can be found at the voucher pick-up points.

Funding for the scheme has been provided by the Big Lottery Fund and Alexandra Rose Charity.

Information is also available by contacting 01226 294604.

Yorkshire Photography