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Find out how we will roll out free school meals to all primary pupils in Wales.

First published:
22 July 2022
Last updated:

Overview

All primary school children in Wales can now access Universal Primary Free School Meals.

This commitment is in response to the rising cost-of-living pressures on families and our shared ambitions of:

  • tackling child poverty
  • ensuring no child goes hungry in school

There are also wider benefits of free school meals, including:

  • promoting healthy eating across the school
  • increasing the variety of food options
  • improving social skills at mealtimes
  • improving behaviour and attainment

This will not affect older children who currently receive or are eligible to apply for free school meals.

Registering for Universal Primary Free School Meals

You may be asked to register your child for Universal Primary Free School Meals.

This will enable your child’s school to take a headcount of the increased total number of children requiring meals. Your child’s school or local authority should give you more information on this. This will not affect other associated benefits.

Contact your local authority for more information.

Accessing wider support

Even if your child already receives Universal Primary Free School Meals, you still need to check eligibility to access wider support. You could get up to £200 through the School Essentials Grant and extra funding for your school.