Free school meals

Also called FSM, Universal infant free school meals

Meals paid for by the state, on a means test — and separately, for all infants regardless of income.

What it is

Benefits-related free school meals are available to children whose parents receive certain qualifying benefits, including Universal Credit below an earnings threshold.

Universal infant free school meals are separate: every child in Reception, year 1 and year 2 in a state school gets a free lunch regardless of income.

Where it applies

All infants for the universal offer. Older children only on the means-tested route.

How it works

You apply through your local council. Eligibility has been protected during the Universal Credit rollout, so once eligible many families remain so.

Registering matters beyond the meal: it triggers pupil premium for the school, is often the passport to help with trips, uniform and music tuition, and to holiday activity funding.

What you can ask for

Apply even if your child is an infant getting a universal meal. Schools frequently ask parents to do this and parents frequently assume it is unnecessary.

Ask the school what else eligibility unlocks locally — many have a discretionary fund and will not mention it unprompted.

Where to get help

Your local council's free school meals page. Turn2us and Citizens Advice on wider benefit entitlement.