Addressing the Heart-Wrenching Reality of Hungry Children Amidst the Cost of Living Crisis

At Good Money Tribe, as financial education experts teaching in schools, we witness firsthand the heart-wrenching impact of the cost of living crisis on children. It's devastating to see kids going hungry, a problem that affects not only the underprivileged but also middle-class families.

The Rising Cost of Parenting

Parenting is undoubtedly expensive, and even after bidding farewell at the school gate, the costs continue to mount.

School lunches are just one more item on the long and often expanding list of expenses. However, some exceptions exist where your child may qualify for free school meals, a critical support during these challenging times.

Eligibility for Free School Meals

The eligibility criteria for free school meals vary across the UK, primarily depending on the benefits you receive. If your household income is below £7,400 per year, you may automatically qualify for free school meals if you are on Universal Credit.

- In London, all primary school children up to the age of 11 at state-funded schools will automatically qualify for free school meals in both the 2023/24 and 2024/25 academic years.

- In Scotland, all children from primary one to five in state-funded schools are eligible for free lunches.

- In Northern Ireland or Wales, your child may qualify if you are claiming certain benefits such as Universal Credit and are on a low income.

If your child continues to study after the age of 16 in sixth form or a further education college, they may also qualify for free school meals, depending on your location within the UK.

How to Apply for Free School Meals

The application process varies by council. In some areas, you apply through your local authority, while in others, you apply directly to the school. Visit your council website for specific instructions.

If you’re unsure of your local council, you can find them at [GOV.UK](https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council).

Renewing Your Application

You may need to re-apply for free school meals for your child each year. Contact your local authority to confirm the details and ensure your child continues to receive this essential support.

Universal Credit and Free School Meals

If you receive Universal Credit and your annual net earned income is no more than £7,400, your child may qualify for free school meals. Rules regarding the earnings threshold vary across the UK, so check the government website specific to your location for details.

Working Tax Credits and Free School Meals

Unfortunately, if you receive Working Tax Credits, your child won’t qualify for free school meals. However, if you are receiving Working Tax Credit run-on (the payment you receive for a further four weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit), your child will usually be entitled.

Foster Children and Free School Meals

The rules for foster parents and carers are the same as for birth parents regarding eligibility for free school meals. However, if you receive an allowance as a foster parent, speak to your local authority about the best approach.

What's Included in a Free School Meal?

The specifics of what’s included in a free school meal vary by council. Mandatory standards in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales ensure that your child’s meal is reasonably healthy.

In some regions, free milk may also be provided alongside the meal.

Financial Support During School Holidays

If your child qualifies for free school meals during term time, they may also be eligible for additional help during school holidays. The support offered varies across the UK and can include free meals, activities, and financial assistance with childcare costs.

- England: Eligible children can participate in the Holiday Activity and Food Programme (HAF), which provides at least one free meal a day during school holidays.

- Wales: Councils offer vouchers, grants, or packed lunches to eligible children over the summer holidays.

- Scotland: Councils provide access to free meals for eligible children during term time.

- Northern Ireland: Unfortunately, the school holiday food grant ended on 31 March 2023, and no extension has been announced.

Some food banks also run holiday clubs to support parents with food during school holidays. Find a food bank near you at the Trussell Trust site.

Conclusion

Navigating the complexities of financial support for school meals can be challenging, but understanding your eligibility and the application process can make a significant difference. If you're struggling with the cost of raising a child, remember that resources like Turn2us can provide guidance on benefits, uniform grants, school travel costs, and related support.