Free School Meals

From September 2026, more children and young people will be able to receive a free meal at school. This is because free school meal eligibility is expanding to include children from households receiving Universal Credit.

Many more families may now be eligible, so we are asking parents and carers to apply if they think this could apply to them.

Applying is worth checking. It could save your family money each week and help make sure your child can have a meal in school if they want one.

Everyone must re-apply again even if your child already gets a free school meal
Please apply if:
1. Your household receives Universal Credit

2. Your household receives another qualifying benefit

3. Your child used to receive free school meals, but you are not sure whether they will still be eligible from September 2026

4. Your circumstances have changed and you think your child may now be eligible

5. Your young person is in sixth form or school-based post 16 provision and you think they may be eligible
You do not need to work out whether your child qualifies. You only need to apply. The eligibility check will do the rest.

Primary Phase Letter 

WHA Free School Meal Parent Letter - Primary

Secondary Phase Letter 

WHA Free School Meal Parent Letter - Secondary

Further Information and Detailed Eligibility Criteria 

Parent Flyer