Thousands of children across Medway have benefited from a scheme to help families in need over half-term.

Medway Council agreed to partner with Citizens Advice Medway (CAM) in order to help families whose children are recipients of free school meals access vouchers and information during the school break.

Cllr Dan McDonald, chief executive of CAM, said he and his team had just two days to set up the scheme which officially began last week when half-term started for some pupils.

It has continued this week to pick up on other families who either had an early half-term in October, or a two-week long break.

The team of 16 volunteers have been distributing vouchers but also giving out bags of essentials including milk, cereals, biscuits, and tinned goods.

The Labour councillor said: "We went above and beyond the normal scheme and the response has been phenomenal."

"Myself and Alan Jarrett have been on the on the phone every day. We have helped 5,000 kids and I'm just amazed at my team.

"People are just so grateful that we have been there."

Council leader Alan Jarrett added: "They have turned it around really quickly and done a fantastic job.

"It's a great example of local authority and the voluntary sector working together to get a good outcome."

If you are in need of assistance, CAM will be operating during the second lockdown.

Their office can be reached by calling 01634 383760.

For the latest coronavirus news and advice, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Medway