Nursery's healthy meals scheme given more funding

An initiative to provide nutritious and affordable meals for children attending a nursery in Guernsey has secured funding for a further three years.

The Bright Plates, Bright Futures programme is a partnership between non-profit nursery Bright Beginnings, Les Cotils hotel and the Health Improvement Commission.

It aims to make healthy eating an easy, everyday experience for children attending the nursery by offering freshly prepared meals at a low cost for families.

Alex Kosmas, The Health Improvement Commission's Eat Well lead, said the funding from Northern Trust would help the nursery to "continue and grow" the programme.

"Early years are a crucial stage for establishing positive food habits, and this partnership helps ensure children have access to meals that are both nutritious and enjoyable," said Kosmas.

Bright Beginnings is a registered charity which supports a combination of private paying families and children who benefit from a government grant.

The grant allows children to attend the nursery free of charge for up to nine hours a week.

Lisa Blondel, chief executive of Bright Beginnings, said working with Les Cotils hotel had brought "real benefits" to the children.

"We are extremely grateful for the time they donate to prepare, cook and deliver the food," she said.

"The meals are fresh, varied and child friendly, and families really value having this support.

She added: "Some of our children also take complimentary meals home with them, which makes a big difference for their growth and development."

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