Half a million more children to get free school meals
2 mins read
Thursday 13 August 2026
This advice applies in England only.
From this September, over 500,000 additional pupils in England will be eligible for free school meals. Different criteria applies in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.
The government announced a change to eligibility rules for low-income households in June 2025. Until this summer, children from families getting Universal Credit would get free school meals if their household income was below certain thresholds or they were in certain protected groups.
From September 2026, all children from families getting Universal Credit will receive free school meals, regardless of parental income.
How do I get free school meals?
Most schools will have asked parents to apply before the school year using their National Insurance Number.
Find out how to apply in your area on the government’s website.
If you think your child is eligible for free school meals but you’re unsure whether you’ve applied, speak to their school as soon as you can.
Who else gets free school meals?
Aside from children from low-income households, a number of other groups are eligible for free school meals:
- All children in reception, Year 1 or Year 2 across England.
- All children in primary schools in London.
- Young people who claim Universal Credit in their own right.
Visit our page on help with education costs for details of qualifying benefits and eligibility rules across the UK.
What if my child is missing out on free school meals?
We have campaigned to ensure all eligible children receive a free school meal or an alternative that suits them.
Many children have missed out due to dietary requirements, medical absence or because they have an education, health and care (EHC) plan with an education package called EOTAS (Education Otherwise Than At School) settings.
If you think your child is missing out, visit our resources page where you can download template letters to help.
What other help can I get in education?
Families might be eligible for help with the costs of school uniform and bursaries and grants. Contact your local authority for details of the help available in your area.
Some children get free school transport because their household gets Universal Credit and they live too far from the nearest suitable school. It is important to be aware that these households still need to meet earnings thresholds.
Visit our page on help with education costs to find out more.