SCHOOLS in England have been “propping up a failing welfare state” during the Covid-19 crisis by providing essential goods, such as food and clothes, to families, according to research published today.

Pressures linked to the pandemic led more families to turn to schools as an important source of support, according to University College London.

Schools in areas with high levels of poverty shouldered a greater burden in addressing families’ problems relating to food insecurity and inadequate housing, including a flat with a rat infestation.