Thousands of additional children are set to benefit from free school meals in Devon County Council and Torbay Council regions without the need for families to apply. Approximately 1,300 students who were previously eligible but not receiving free school meals will now receive this assistance. Cornwall Council plans to implement automatic enrollment for free school meals for an additional 1,800 children starting in September 2026.
Eligibility for free school meals in the UK varies based on location, age, and household benefits. Children in England receive free school meals in reception class, year 1, and year 2. To qualify for free school meals through Universal Credit, the household income must be below £7,400 annually. However, starting from the 2026/27 academic year, all children whose families are on Universal Credit will receive free school meals regardless of income.
Further guidance from the Department for Education is expected before September 2026. In Scotland, primary one to primary five students receive free school meals, while in Wales, all primary school pupils are eligible. In Northern Ireland, parents claiming benefits must apply for free school meals, as they are not automatically provided. If a child attends a private school, they typically do not receive free school meals.
For those who do not qualify automatically, applying for free school meals based on specific benefits is an option until the child turns 18. Additional assistance such as grants for school uniform and trips may also be available to those receiving free school meals.
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