MPs have criticized the government for failing to ensure that thousands of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive their legal entitlement to free school meals.
During a Parliamentary debate on January 10, MPs called for clearer government guidance and increased support for schools in meeting the dietary needs of SEND pupils. They highlighted cases where the current guidance contradicts the law, leading to many children being denied their right to free school meals.
Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, Conservative MP for North East Somerset, highlighted the contradicting law and guidance, urging the government to rectify the situation by aligning the guidance with the law.
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Sarah Dyke, the Lib Dem MP for Somerset & Frome, emphasized the unsuitability of the current free school meals guidance, particularly its lack of specific provisions for SEND children. She also called for comprehensive support for children with special needs and disabilities throughout educational guidance.
Kerry McCarthy, Labour MP for Bristol East, shared her personal experiences and questioned the role of the Food Standards Agency in ensuring schools meet the dietary needs of SEND pupils.
In response, the Minister for Schools, Damian Hinds, stressed the government’s commitment to providing nutritious food in schools and ensuring that all children, including those with SEND status, receive the best possible start in life. He also highlighted the duty of schools to make reasonable adjustments for disabled children, including tailored food provision and arrangements.
It is evident that urgent action is needed to address the shortcomings in current government guidance and ensure that children with SEND receive the essential support they are legally entitled to.