Cllr Helen Adkins, Leader of the Warwickshire Labour Group, and fellow Labour Councillors have raised serious concerns over Warwickshire County Council's support for lower income families.

The reaction comes after it was revealed that fewer than one in 10 children eligible for Free School Meals had received the support they were entitled to more than half way through the half term.

Figures revealed that Warwickshire County Council's attempt to use their welfare scheme to fill the free schools meal gap had so far reached only 1018 out of 11,411 children eligible.

This follows Cllr Helen Adkins and other Labour leaders from across Warwickshire calling on Conservative-controlled Warwickshire County Council to step up after the Government voted to deny food vouchers to children who needed them.

Matt Western MP also supported the calls. Following letters to the Council Leader changes to the welfare scheme were announced via an interview on BBC Radio 4.

Cllr Helen Adkins said "It is clear from these figures that the Council's attempt to step in to fill the gap has failed. So few children accessing the food they desperately need is a sign this welfare scheme isn't fit for purpose. I know Council Officers are working hard to help, but the leadership of the Council need to urgently re-think this scheme, and ensure it is overhauled before the Christmas holidays.

"I salute the work of many community organisations, local businesses and individuals who have stepped up to provide food to children in the school holidays, but the reality is that this is a sign of Government and Local Authority failure.

"We believe it is essential the Government U-turns before the Christmas holidays and if it does not, Warwickshire County Council must overhaul its system so those children in need of support are sure to receive it."