A new scheme that will see hundreds of thousands of parents receive vouchers for free fruit and vegetables has been hailed as a ‘great example of the difference a Labour government can make to local people’s lives’ by Labour Councillor, Ian Grayson.

The move, announced by Health Secretary John Reid last week, is aimed at improving nutritional balance among young children in poorer families. The scheme is part of a new drive to encourage lifelong healthy eating habits and tackle obesity. It’s estimated that in total up to 800,000 people will benefit from the scheme.

Councillor Ian Grayson who represents Collingwood Ward, heralded the new scheme saying:

“This scheme will help support some of the poorest pregnant women and families in Collingwood. Young children need a good diet to ensure their development and this is why we are making these vouchers for milk, fruit and vegetables available.

“By starting children off in life with a healthy lifestyle they are far more likely to remain healthy in later life. As a Labour Councillor I am proud that this government is offering this kind of help to our poorest families and most vulnerable children. This scheme will make a real difference to people’s lives.

“This is in stark contrast to what North Tyneside Conservative Council is proposing in their budget plans. Tories on North Tyneside are increasing school milk charges by 50% as well as increasing the cost of school meals.”

The government changes come under the reforms to the Welfare Food Scheme. Currently parents eligible for the scheme only receive tokens to liquid mild and infant formula. The tokens will be replaced with weekly vouchers that can be used to buy fresh produce as well as milk. Qualification for the scheme is based on factors such as low income or receive of tax credits. The vouchers will be worth at least £2.80 per week to families with children aged over one year old. Families with children aged between 0 and one year old will receive vouchers worth at least £5.60 per week.

Last week a report by doctors classed 9 per cent of children aged between two and four years old as obese.

Local resident Margaret Wright organiser of Moor Park Community Group in Collingwood said:

“The best way of tackling obesity is through encouraging a healthy diet at an early age. These changes mean that pregnant women, nursing mothers and younger children already benefiting from the scheme will in future have a greater choice of healthy eating options, so reducing chances of obesity.”

Vouchers will be exchangeable in a wide range of participating retail outlets, which could include milkmen, greengrocers, retail pharmacies, community food initiatives as well as supermarkets and other general grocery outlets.

Reforms to the Welfare Food Scheme also mean that children in nursery will be offered a choice of milk or fruit, instead of just milk as currently happens.