Thousands of additional children are now eligible to receive free school meals through an automatic enrollment system in Devon and Torbay Council regions. Approximately 1,300 pupils who were previously entitled but not receiving free school meals will now benefit from this support. Cornwall Council is also planning to implement automatic enrollment for free school meals, benefiting an additional 1,800 children starting September 2026.
Eligibility for free school meals varies based on location within the UK, the child’s age, and household benefit claims. In England, children in reception class, year 1, and year 2 are eligible. For those claiming Universal Credit, an annual income threshold of £7,400 after tax, excluding benefits, is currently required. However, starting from the 2026/27 academic year, all children from families claiming Universal Credit will automatically receive free school meals regardless of income.
Further guidance from the Department for Education is expected before September 2026. In London, primary school children receive free school meals up to age 11. In Scotland, free school meals are provided to children in 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. Children attending private schools typically do not receive free school meals.
If a child does not qualify automatically for free school meals, parents may apply if they meet certain benefit criteria 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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