Thousands of additional children are now eligible to receive free school meals in Devon County Council and Torbay Council regions without the need for separate applications. Approximately 1,300 students who were previously entitled but not receiving free school meals will now benefit from this assistance. Cornwall Council is also planning 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. In England, children in reception class, year 1, and year 2 are automatically eligible. Those claiming Universal Credit must earn under £7,400 annually to qualify, although this requirement will be removed starting in the 2026/27 academic year, ensuring all children from families receiving Universal Credit will receive free school meals regardless of income.
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 must apply for free school meals if they are claiming benefits. Private school students do not typically qualify for free school meals.
For those who do not automatically qualify based on the mentioned criteria, there may still be eligibility by claiming specific benefits until the child turns 18. Additional support, such as grants for school uniform and trips, may also be available for those receiving free school meals.