Thousands of additional children are set to benefit from receiving free school meals as part of an automatic enrollment initiative by Devon County Council and Torbay Council. Previously, families had to apply for free school meals, but now eligible children will be automatically enrolled in the program. This move will provide assistance to approximately 1,300 students who were previously entitled to free school meals but were not receiving them.
Additionally, Cornwall Council plans to implement automatic enrollment for free school meals starting in September 2026, benefiting an additional 1,800 children. Eligibility for free school meals varies depending on the region in the UK, the child’s age, and the household’s benefit claims. Children in England are eligible for free school meals in reception class, year 1, and year 2.
Furthermore, children whose families claim Universal Credit must earn below £7,400 annually, after tax and excluding benefits, to qualify for free school meals. However, starting from the 2026/27 academic year, this income threshold requirement will be removed. Every child from a family claiming Universal Credit will automatically receive free school meals regardless of household income.
The Department for Education will issue detailed guidance before September 2026. In London, primary school children are eligible for free school meals up to the age of 11. In Scotland, children in primary one to primary five receive free school meals, while in Wales, all primary school pupils are entitled to them. In Northern Ireland, parents claiming benefits must apply for free school meals as they are not automatically provided. Private school students typically do not receive free school meals.
If a child does not automatically qualify for free school meals based on the criteria mentioned, parents may still be able to apply if they claim certain benefits until the child turns 18. Additionally, those who receive free school meals may be eligible for other assistance, such as grants for school uniform and trips.