Is my child entitled to free school meals?

Yes, we know, school might be about to wind down for the summer, but you will need to start thinking about getting prepared for the new term in no time at all.

For some parents, whether their child is entitled to free school meals is a big question, so here is everything you need to know.

Firstly, what is it?

Free School Meals are available for the children of people who have an income-based benefit. Depending on your circumstances, you can also qualify if you get working tax credits, but this depends on the income your credits have been worked out on and where you live in the UK, so be sure to check with your local authority if you think you might be eligible.

So, who can apply?

You can apply for free school meals of you receive any income-based benefit, such as Universal Credit, State Pension Credit, Income-related Jobseeker’s or Employment Support Allowance, Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit. In some areas, Universal Credit has been rolled out and other forms of benefit won’t be in existence. You can check by logging into your account or by speaking to a call handler. Alternatively, your school or local authority will be able to talk you through what you are entitled to.

How do I claim?

So, you’ve established that you’re eligible, now what? Well, firstly, free school meals are administered by local authorities, so you will need to contact them to begin your claim. Some parents may qualify for Healthy Start – this is a scheme run by the Department of Health and claims will need to be made through them. This will entitle you to coupons you can use in exchange for vitamins, milk, fruit, vegetables and formula milk. It is available to people on certain benefits who are at least ten weeks pregnant or have a child under four. Younger mums, aged 18 and under, will automatically qualify for this, but do check with the Department of Health to check whether you can claim.

Any questions about benefits, please speak to your local authority, Citizen’s Advice or go online to www.entitledto.co.uk where you can calculate which benefits you could be entitled to.