The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that from September 2026, all households receiving Universal Credit will qualify for Free School Meals, regardless of income. This change will make over half a million additional pupils eligible for the support.
New eligibility criteria
Currently, only Universal Credit households with an income below £7,400 per year qualify for Free School Meals. The new rule removes this cap, extending eligibility to all families on Universal Credit. The DWP confirmed the change will take effect for the 2026/27 school year, giving schools time to prepare for increased demand.
Financial relief for families
The Labour government stated: "This expansion will provide significant financial relief for families. If your household receives Universal Credit, you could save up to £495 per year per child on school lunches. For families with multiple children, these savings can make a substantial difference to household budgets."
Nutrition and wellbeing benefits
Beyond financial savings, the programme aims to ensure children receive nutritious meals during school hours. The government added: "This supports their learning and concentration in the classroom, physical health and development and overall wellbeing." The government is also revising School Food Standards to provide updated nutrition guidance.
Application process
While eligibility will be automatically granted to all Universal Credit recipients, families must still apply to receive the benefit. The government noted: "We expect the majority of schools will allow parents to apply before the start of the school year 2026, by providing their National Insurance Number to check their eligibility."
Impact on child poverty
The expansion is expected to lift approximately 100,000 children out of poverty by the end of this Parliament, according to the government. Universal Credit is a monthly payment for those on a low income, out of work, or unable to work, paid twice monthly in Scotland.
