Council spent £60,000 on a report criticizing its £1 million free school meals program but allegedly hid the findings.
An information request brought the report to light, revealing big problems with the free meal plan for secondary students during the 2023/24 school year. These issues significantly hurt the program’s overall worth.
Liberal Democrat leader Victor Chamberlain spoke out, calling the situation wasteful and highlighting the excessive spending on consultants. He argued that the money should be used to fix long-term issues instead.
The council added a note before releasing the report, claiming it contained errors and lacked adequate context. They also expressed disapproval of the report’s tone or language.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service requested an explanation from the council. Jasmine Ali responded, stating that the report lacked understanding of the program’s complexities.
Ali also acknowledged some positive aspects of the report, mentioning that its recommendations would help improve food security efforts. She stated that the council will work with schools and partners to address these recommendations.
The council provided free meals to students from families on Universal Credit who did not qualify for government meals. London’s Mayor funded primary meals, freeing up council money to pay for secondary student meals. Around 900 to 950 students joined the program as of May 2024; this reallocation was made possible by Sadiq Khan’s decision.
The report praised the council’s quick action in addressing food needs among residents, but highlighted serious implementation problems. The council allegedly approved ineligible students and schools submitted incorrect reimbursement claims.
The report defined these issues as mismanagement and also mentioned unequal treatment within the project, where some benefited more than others. The council may face audits or reviews as a result of these errors.
The Liberal Democrats shared data showing that Southwark spent £2 million on consultants recently, compared to £1.7 million the previous year. This occurred since April 2024, highlighting a recent increase.
Ali emphasized that the council supports free school meals, believing they help the next generation. She reaffirmed the council’s commitment to this support, stating that it effectively assists young people.