More children in Devon and Torbay Council regions are now eligible for free school meals without having to apply. Approximately 1,300 students who were entitled to this support but were not receiving it before will now benefit. Cornwall Council will also implement automatic enrollment for free school meals starting September 2026, benefiting an additional 1,800 children.
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 receive free school meals. To qualify for free school meals beyond these years, families must claim certain benefits, including Universal Credit, and earn below £7,400 per year after taxes.
Starting from the 2026/27 academic year, every child from a family claiming Universal Credit will receive free school meals regardless of household 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, children from primary one to primary five receive free school meals, while in Wales, all primary school pupils are eligible. In Northern Ireland, parents claiming benefits must apply for free school meals as they are not given automatically. Children attending private schools do not typically receive free school meals.
If a child does not automatically qualify for free school meals based on the mentioned criteria, parents may apply if they claim certain benefits until the child turns 18. Additionally, those receiving free school meals may be eligible for other assistance such as grants for school uniform and trips.