An additional 1,600 children in Knowsley could benefit from free school meals from next year as a result of national changes to eligibility from September 2026.
From that date, any child in England whose parents receive Universal Credit will now be able to claim free school meals. That will impact more than half a million children in the UK and figures in Knowsley suggest that on top of the 8,100 children already benefitting from free school meals a further 1,600 will become eligible – a really positive boost for many families.
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council said: “This is fantastic news for children and families here in Knowsley and all over the UK too. Widening the eligibility criteria for free school meals is something this Council has been firmly behind for a long time now and I am delighted that these changes have been confirmed.
“Back in March I, along with our Chief Executive and local MPs Ian Byrne and Anneliese Midgley, met with Stephen Morgan MP the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Early Education to discuss some of the challenges we face around childhood obesity and poverty. Widening the free school meals eligibility was a key part of those discussions. It will save families hundreds of pounds, ensure no child goes hungry and support children to thrive and reach their full potential.
“The positive impact this will have on families in our borough is huge and I am really heartened that the Government has confirmed these changes that will mean so much to children and families.”
Following a question raised in Parliament, Ian Byrne MP had arranged a meeting with Stephen Morgan MP the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Early Education, Anneliese Midgley MP and representatives from Knowsley Council. As well as discussing some of the challenges around childhood obesity and poverty the Minister was impressed with some of the work already taking place in Knowsley including the Healthy Schools Initiative and the Council’s close working with Public Health professionals.
The changes to Free School Meals eligibility, confirmed by the Government this week, are estimated to save eligible families £500 per year and will come into effect in September 2026. More information will be shared before these changes are implemented.
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.