FREE SCHOOL MEALS

Many parents are eligible for FREE School Meals for their children but are not registering to take up this opportunity. Make sure you – and your child – are not missing out! The term “Free School Meals” refers to a meal that is provided to a child or young person during their lunch break that is paid for out of Government funding. For a child to qualify for a free school meal, their parent or carer must be receiving particular eligible benefits as stated by the Government.

About free school meals

You're eligible for free school meals if you receive any of the following benefits:

income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
income-related Employment and Support Allowance
support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
the guaranteed element of Pension Credit
Child Tax Credit (provided you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190)
Working Tax Credit run-on - paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit
Universal Credit - if you apply on or after 1 April 2018 your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get)

If your child is eligible for free school meals, they’ll remain eligible until they finish the phase of schooling (primary or secondary) they’re in on 31 March 2022.

Applications can be taken over the telephone by calling (0191) 643 2288 (You will require your National Insurance Number) or by completing the on line form below or print and submit a paper application form.

https://my.northtyneside.gov.uk/category/238/free-school-meals