Thousands more children in Devon County Council and Torbay Council regions will now receive free school meals automatically, eliminating the need for families to apply for this support. Previously, around 1,300 eligible pupils were not benefiting from free school meals, but will now receive this assistance moving forward. Cornwall Council is also planning to 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 benefits claims. Children in England receive free school meals in reception class, year 1, and year 2. Currently, eligibility for free school meals in England requires claiming specific benefits, including Universal Credit, with an income below £7,400 annually. However, starting from the 2026/27 academic year, all children from families claiming Universal Credit will be entitled to free school meals without income restrictions.
The Department for Education will issue detailed guidance 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 are provided with free school meals, while in Wales, all primary school students receive free meals. In Northern Ireland, parents claiming benefits need to apply for free school meals, as they are not automatically given. Children attending private schools typically do not qualify for free school meals.
For those not automatically eligible for free school meals, applications can be made if specific benefits are claimed until the child turns 18. Furthermore, claiming free school meals may open doors to additional support such as grants for school uniform and trips.