Thousands of additional children are now eligible for free school meals in Devon County Council and Torbay Council areas without the need for individual applications. This change means approximately 1,300 students who were previously entitled to free school meals but were not receiving them will now benefit from this support. Cornwall Council is also planning to implement automatic enrollment for free school meals starting in September 2026, which will benefit another 1,800 children.
Eligibility for free school meals varies based on the region in the UK, the child’s age, and household benefit claims. In England, children in reception class, year 1, and year 2 receive free school meals. Beyond that, eligibility is tied to specific benefits such as Universal Credit, with an income threshold of under £7,400 per year after tax (excluding benefits) to qualify.
Starting from the 2026/27 academic year, all children from families claiming Universal Credit will be entitled to free school meals regardless of income. The Department for Education will provide detailed guidelines before September 2026. In London, primary school children receive free meals until the age of 11.
Scotland offers free school meals to children from primary one to primary five, while in Wales, all primary school pupils are eligible. In Northern Ireland, parents must apply for free school meals if they are claiming benefits, as it is not automatic. Private school attendees typically do not receive free school meals unless they meet specific criteria.
For those who do not automatically qualify for free school meals, there may be an option to apply if certain benefits are being claimed until the child reaches 18. Additionally, eligibility for free school meals may entitle families to other forms of assistance, such as grants for school uniform and trips.