Free School Meals

Free School Meals eligibility rules changed in September 2026. A wider group of children are now eligible for Free School Meals.

From the start of the 2026/2027 academic school year, all children in households receiving Universal Credit will be entitled to receive free school meals. If your child does not already receive Free School Meals you will need to apply for free school meals so we can check if your child is eligible.

Group1 – Targeted Free School Meals

  • Where families are in receipt of Universal Credit AND family income is below £7,400.
  • Children will be entitled to Free School Meals
  • In addition Children are entitled to funded holiday activities and food.
  • School receives additional funding to support your child.

Group 2 – Expanded Free School Meals

  • Where families are in receipt of Universal Credit AND family income is above £7,400.
  • Children will be entitled to Free School Meals
  • No entitlement to funded holiday activities and food.
  • School does not received additional funding to support your child.

 

Applications can be made via Gateshead Council.