FUNDS are still available through a campaign to stop children being cold at home during the pandemic and a Bradford headteacher explained how helpful the scheme has been.

The No Child Cold campaign was launched back in January by Bradford Council.

Many families are facing higher energy bills as a result of people working from home, and schools being closed, with children having to work remotely.

Around 75,000 children in Bradford have been learning from home this winter, but at least 28 per cent (21,000) of those live in homes where the adults who care for them are struggling to afford to heat the home for all that extra time.

Businesses, faith groups and individuals have been pledging money towards a fund right throughout the campaign.

Those who are struggling can apply for a share of this fund, if they fit the simple criteria, which includes those who have been furloughed or households where children would be entitled to free school meals usually and have seen a rise in fuel costs.

Claims have been coming in from across the district, from a wide range of people.

Schools have also been helping their families to benefit from the campaign.

One Bradford head teacher said: “We are very grateful for the No Child Cold grant which has provided much needed support for many of our families.

"Within minutes of sending a notification, we had over 35 responses asking for us to apply on their behalf and this continued to rise over the next couple of days.

"We have now submitted over 100 applications which is a clear indication of how many families need support.

"With so many additional challenges for children and their families at the moment, this grant has taken away some of the anxiety about money and ensured that children are able to learn without being distracted by feeling cold.

"On behalf of the families at our school, a big thank you to everyone who is supporting this initiative."

Organisers are urging more people to come forward before the campaign comes to an end on March 8.

You can see whether you're eligible and make at claim at: cabad.org.uk/nochildcold