Readers react to Nicola Sturgeon's announcement that £100 will be given to families receiving free school meals

Nicola Sturgeon has today announced a £100 direct payment will be given to every Scottish family receiving free school meals over Christmas.

She said: "The money will be paid before Christmas and families can use it for whatever will help them through the winter.”

The majority of our readers agreed with the initiative, with Lynnette Duffy saying “Some who find themselves on benefits have worked and paid taxes (some at higher rate) for decades before illness/disability ravaged their lives and therefore they're bloody well entitled to benefits back.

"At any point these moaning people could find themselves in that situation and I bet they wouldn't be so quick to moan at people on benefits then!

"What's the saying...There by the grace of God go I...or something like that (I'm not religious!)”

Paula Gillon agreed saying: “Brilliant!! About time struggling families had a wee bit extra to pay towards food or bills to keep them going.

"I don’t see how this is a bad thing.”

Scott McIntosh added “Its £100 not £1000 everyone, it's hardly the massive Christmas bonus that you are all making it out to be.

“Hope it helps those who really need it.”

Sheila Duff explained: “I’m a pensioner i also remember how hard it was bringing up my daughters myself would never begrudge people getting this it will help them give there children a better Christmas.

"Those that are complaining they work on low wages why are they not getting it, it’s the poorest in society its helping.

"Please Scotland, were has your compassion went?”

Mari-Claire Murphy said: “Why are people moaning about this? ITS FOR CHILDREN.”

Not everyone was as supportive, with Thomas Cook commenting: “Politicians helping the ordinary person? Must be an election coming up.”

Lisa Haynes added “I’m not being rude but a lot of people are struggling right now why are you targeting people that get a free school dinners?

"Some of them should not get this because you have no evidence to spending it on the children and what do we do for every other year if you start giving people too many handouts they will expect it all the time.

" I’m sorry but I will do what I can to help, I’m a full-time parent but I certainly don’t take loads of handouts.”

James Spears said: “Buying next years votes...

“When will the Scottish people wake up, and smell the porridge, there’s never a free lunch!!!”

Willie Green concluded: “Should be giving to every family!

“The pandemic has affected everyone some way or another! £100 not a lot of money but would give the whole nation a lift if every family got a wee bonus.”

The First Minister has also confirmed that NHS workers and care staff will receive a £500 thank you bonus.

She has said this is in recognition of their “extraordinary service” over the past eight months.

Ms Sturgeon added: "The money will be paid in this financial year and it will be separate from any negotiations about pay for the longer term."

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