Scottish Labour manifesto to include school breakfast clubs expansion

Scottish Labour’s manifesto, unveiled today, is expected to include a commitment to support every primary school in Scotland to expand or establish breakfast clubs for pupils.

A fund would be paid directly to schools to enable the expansion, thought to be several thousand pounds.

Historically breakfast clubs have been developed to provide a healthy breakfast for vulnerable children, but Labour leader Kezia Dugdale is expected to say the plan would also help with flexible childcare.

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"Breakfast clubs not only ensure children start the day with a healthy meal, but they provide the childcare that so many parents desperately need,” she said, ahead of the manifesto launch.

An expansion of sports clubs after school would provide flexibility at the end of the day, she said.

“To grow our economy and help women in particular thrive in their jobs, parents need access to flexible childcare.”

The SNP and other parties have pledged 30 hours of free childcare a week ahead of the election, but have faced criticism many parents miss out because it is not flexible enough.

There has been some evidence providing free breakfast at schools may benefit children from deprived backgrounds more than a free lunch, as many skip breakfast and learning on an empty stomach affects attainment.

Scottish Labour's manifesto launches today, only eight days before the Scottish Parliament election.