As the new school term commences, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a statement highlighting a significant development regarding free school meals. More than three million children from households receiving Universal Credit are now eligible for free school meals, marking an important boost for families starting the academic year.
Labour MP Andrew Cooper, representing Mid-Cheshire, raised a parliamentary question to the Secretary of State, Sir Stephen Timms, urging the department to consider notifying Universal Credit claimants of their potential eligibility for free school meals through the Universal Credit online journal. This digital journal serves as a permanent and chronological record of a claimant’s Universal Credit activities, documenting completed tasks, changes in circumstances, and previous statements.
In response on 2 September, Sir Stephen Timms stated that while the department is dedicated to ensuring Universal Credit recipients can access their entitled support, the eligibility criteria for free school meals fall under the Department for Education. The DWP reviews communication methods with claimants, including digital channels like the online journal, but has not decided to implement routine notifications about free school meal eligibility.
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He explained that the online journal primarily facilitates communication related to Universal Credit administration and is not typically used for speculative messages about entitlements managed by other agencies. Claimants are encouraged to seek information on additional support, including free school meals, through existing guidance provided by relevant authorities.
This announcement coincides with a wider government initiative aimed at alleviating financial pressures on families. As part of a comprehensive support package, more free breakfast clubs are opening, government-funded childcare is available, and regulations are being introduced to limit costs associated with expensive branded school uniforms. Collectively, these measures could enable families to save up to £1,200 annually on meals, uniforms, and breakfast clubs, with working parents potentially saving up to £8,000 on childcare costs.
Education Secretary Lucy Powell emphasised the financial challenges at the start of term due to expenses like uniforms, lunches, and childcare. She expressed optimism that the expanded free school meals, additional breakfast clubs, childcare support, and school uniform initiatives will provide essential financial relief, enabling families to focus on their children’s education and development.
Free school meal eligibility extends to children whose families receive Universal Credit, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, or the guaranteed element of Pension Credit. Children receiving these benefits directly may also qualify. Additionally, children below compulsory school age in full-time education may be eligible if their parents receive these benefits. Families who do not receive most benefits are encouraged to consult their child’s school or local authority to determine eligibility.
Further information about the Universal Credit online journal is available on the government website, and parents can check eligibility and apply for free school meals via the gov.uk portal.