Thousands more children in Devon and Torbay Council regions will now receive free school meals without the need for separate applications. Previously, families had to apply for this support, but now eligible children will be automatically enrolled to ensure they don’t miss out.
Around 1,300 students who were entitled to free school meals but were not receiving them will benefit from this change. Cornwall Council is also planning 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 benefits claims. In England, children in reception class, year 1, and year 2 receive free school meals. Beyond that, eligibility is linked to specific benefits, including Universal Credit.
However, starting from the 2026/27 academic year, the income threshold requirement for Universal Credit claimants will be removed, ensuring that every child from a family claiming Universal Credit will receive free school meals. The Department for Education will issue detailed guidelines before September 2026.
Different rules apply in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland regarding free school meals for primary school children. In Northern Ireland, parents must apply for free school meals if they are claiming benefits. Private school students do not typically qualify for free school meals.
If a child does not automatically qualify for free school meals based on the set criteria, parents may still be eligible by claiming certain benefits until the child turns 18. Additionally, those receiving free school meals may also be eligible for other assistance such as grants for school uniform and trips.