There’s still time to apply for Free School Meals – the deadline is Friday 28 August 2026.
From September 2026, if you receive Universal Credit, your child will qualify for free school meals, regardless of the household’s income.
This starts from your child’s first day of school in Reception until they finish in Year 11 at secondary school.
Who is eligible for free school meals?
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, please still complete an application as this will help to maximise funding coming into your school.
From September 2026, pupils of parents from Year 3 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
What do I need to do?
To ensure your child receives meals from the start of the autumn term, the council will need to confirm your child’s eligibility before the school year begins.
If you are already receiving free school meals, the council will automatically check and inform you if you are still eligible.
If you are not currently receiving a free school meal but you do receive Universal Credit, please ensure you apply.
How to apply
You can apply for a free school meal on the council’s website here – Apply for free school meals | Knowsley Council
Please ensure you apply by Friday 28 August 2026.
Help and support
If you need any help and support, please speak to your school (before the school year finishes). Alternatively, call Knowsley Council on 0151 489 6000 or via the online chat at www.knowsley.gov.uk/contact-us and then click ‘Chat to us’.