The rules for free school meals has changed.
From September 2026, all children from households receiving Universal Credit are now entitled to free school meals, regardless of household earnings. Read further guidance on GOV.UK
There are now two types of free school meals:
Targeted free school meals
For families who get Universal Credit and earn £7,400 a year or less, and some other eligible families.
Children get:
- free school meals
- access to extra support, which may include holiday activities and food (HAF)
-
support that can help their school receive additional funding through the Pupil Premium
Expanded free school meals
Your child may be able to get free school meals if your household receives Universal Credit and earns more than £7,400 a year.
Children who qualify will get:
- free school meals
They do not automatically qualify for extra support such as:
- holiday activities and food (HAF)
- Pupil Premium funding for their school
Your child may also qualify if you receive:
- income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- the guaranteed element of Pension Credit
- certain immigration or asylum support
Some families with no recourse to public funds may also qualify.
Have you received a letter from us?
We are writing to some families whose children may be eligible for free school meals. If you receive a letter from us, please follow the instructions provided.
Check your eligibility and apply
Check whether your child may be eligible for free school meals online. You will usually receive an immediate response.
Apply
If you have checked above that your child is eligible, apply for free school meals through Wirral Council. If you need help with an application, contact your child's school.