We need to tackle child hunger and poverty – the school milk scheme is essential for families

The UK government’s School Milk Scheme is essential for tackling child hunger and poverty, writes Hilary Jones

Subsidised milk for children aged 5-11 through the European School Milk Scheme is under threat (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The cost of living crisis is hitting millions of British families. The price of the weekly shop, filling up the car and other basics are all going up. With household budgets being squeezed ever tighter, families are having to make difficult decisions. Inevitably, thoughts turn to what can be cut in the name of belt-tightening. And one area that is at risk is school milk.

School milk is a fundamental part of school life and has been for generations, with millions of children across the UK sitting down with their classmates to enjoy mid-morning milk.

As a doctor, I know the health benefits of drinking dairy milk – and this is especially true for children. Cow’s milk provides kids with an incredible source of nutrients that are essential for growth and development, including vitamins B2 and B12. Milk is also essential for supporting healthy bones – with calcium being especially important during childhood, when the skeleton is still growing – and for making young teeth stronger.