The Council has completed around 10,000 eligibility assessments for free school meals and around 3,000 additional children are now eligible, due to a change in criteria. Could this be you?
From September 2026, any child in England whose parents receive Universal Credit can claim free school meals.
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council said: “Widening the eligibility criteria for free school meals is something this Council has been firmly behind for a long time now. If you think you could be eligible, please check and apply today.”
From September 2026, pupils of parents from Reception to Year 11 will be eligible for a Free School Meal if they claim one of the following benefits:-
- Universal Credit
- Income Support (IS)
- Income Base Jobseekers Allowance (IBJSA)
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- Guarantee element of State Pension Credit
- Income Related Employment Support Allowance
All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 receive free school meals automatically under the Universal Infant Free School Meals scheme.
However, if you do receive Universal Credit or any of the benefits outlined, please still complete an application as this will help to maximise funding coming into your school.
You can check the current eligibility and apply online for Free School Meals via the Council website. Make sure you check what you might be entitled to.