Stockport Families Encouraged to Apply for Free School Meals to Access Additional Benefits

Parents of school children in Stockport are being urged to apply for free school meals, with the potential to save up to £400 a year on lunchtime costs, as well as access additional funding for their child’s education.

Children may be eligible for free school meals if their parents receive any of the following benefits:

• Universal Credit (with an annual income of no more than £7,400 after tax, excluding benefits)

• Income Support

• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

• Guaranteed element of State Pension Credit

• Child Tax Credit (with an income below £16,190, without receiving Working Tax Credit)

Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council’s Councillor Jilly Julian said: “For many reasons, some people are not aware or do not access free school meals for their children when they could be. Not only are they missing out on the saving that this brings to their family but it means that the child’s school will also be missing out on extra funding that they are eligible for, this funding is known at the Pupil Premium.

“Stockport Council are appealing to all those eligible to apply for free school meals. The Council will be following up this appeal with action to apply for free school meals on behalf of all those families who haven’t yet done so. This will ensure our schools are accessing all of the funding they need to support Stockport’s children to the best of their ability.

For children attending academies or local authority-maintained schools in Stockport, qualifying for free school meals also triggers additional government funding for schools, known as the Pupil Premium. This funding, which can be up to £1,480 per eligible child, is allocated to support resources that directly benefit a child’s education.

Key Stage 1 Children: A Special Case

Parents of children in Reception, Year 1, or Year 2 should be particularly attentive. These children automatically receive free meals at lunchtime under government policy. However, even if they are already entitled to free school meals, it is crucial for parents to apply formally. Failure to do so means the school misses out on valuable Pupil Premium funding, which can make a significant difference to educational resources. Additionally, applying ensures that the entitlement continues beyond the age of seven.

How to Apply

What Happens if You Don’t Apply?

If parents do not apply, Stockport Council will automatically check eligibility using personal data, including Council Tax Support and Housing Benefit claims. If eligibility is confirmed, the council will apply on the parent’s behalf. While parents will only be notified of a successful application, this process ensures that schools can access the funding they are entitled to.

Flexible Meal Options

Enrolling in the free school meals scheme does not mean that children must take the provided meal. They can still bring their own packed lunch if preferred. However, by being part of the program, schools gain access to vital funding that enhances educational opportunities for all pupils.

More Information

For further details or to apply, parents can visit the Stockport Council’s free school meals webpage.

By applying, Stockport families can not only save money but also help ensure their children receive the educational support they deserve.