As of the beginning of the 2026/27 academic year, children in England from households receiving Universal Credit are now eligible for free school meals, irrespective of their household earnings. This expands the existing provision which already entitles all pupils in Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 at government-funded schools to a free lunch.
Families receiving other qualifying support, such as income-related Employment and Support Allowance or the guarantee element of Pension Credit, may also be eligible. Applications for free school meals are typically handled by local councils.
Across the UK, free school meal provision varies. In Scotland, children in Primary 1 to Primary 5 at publicly funded schools receive free lunches. Wales offers universal free school meals to all full-time primary school pupils, with further secondary provision being introduced. Northern Ireland's eligibility is means-tested, with a Universal Credit earnings threshold of £15,900 after tax for the 2026/27 school year.
Beyond school meals, working parents receiving Universal Credit may be able to reclaim up to 85% of eligible childcare costs for registered breakfast clubs, after-school clubs, holiday clubs, childminders, and nurseries. From April 2026, the maximum support is £1,071.09 per assessment period for one child or £1,836.16 for two or more children.
Some schools also offer free or reduced-fee breakfast clubs, funded places, or support through hardship funds. The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme in England provides activities and healthy meals during school holidays, primarily for children receiving benefits-related free school meals.