ERFPA calls for free school meals for every primary school child
The East Riding Food Poverty Alliance (ERFPA) has welcomed the Government’s announcement that, from September 2026, all children whose families receive Universal Credit will become eligible for free school meals. The change is expected to benefit more than half a million additional children across England and save families around £500 per child each year.
No Child Left Behinds Deliver the Dinners campaign has long argued that no child should go hungry during the school day and that access to nutritious food should not depend on family income or postcode.
While this expansion is a significant step forward, ERFPA believes the policy does not go far enough.
Every Child Deserves a Healthy School Meal
Under the new rules, children in households receiving Universal Credit will be entitled to free school meals from September 2026, replacing the previous earnings threshold that excluded many low-income working families.
However, thousands of primary school children in working families across the East Riding will still miss out because their parents are not in receipt of Universal Credit, despite continuing pressures from the cost-of-living crisis.
ERFPA is therefore calling on the Government to extend free school meals to all primary school-aged children, ensuring that every child has access to a healthy meal during the school day and removing the stigma often associated with means-tested support.
The Cost to Families
For families who do not qualify for support, school meals represent a significant weekly expense.
Across East Riding schools, primary school meals typically cost between £2.75 and £3.00 per day, depending on the school.
This means a family with one child in Key Stage 2 can expect to pay approximately:
- £13.75–£15.00 per week
- £55–£60 per month
- More than £780 per year
For families with two or more children, these costs can quickly exceed £1,500 annually.
At a time when many households continue to face rising food, energy and housing costs, these additional expenses can place considerable strain on family budgets.
Investing in Children’s Futures
Research consistently shows that children who receive nutritious meals are better able to concentrate, learn and participate in school life. Free school meals can improve attendance, support health and wellbeing, and help reduce child poverty. The Government estimates that its September 2026 expansion will lift around 100,000 children out of poverty.
ERFPA believes that extending free school meals to all primary-aged children would build on these benefits, providing universal support that is simple, fair and effective.
Deliver the Dinners
The Deliver the Dinners campaign is urging local residents, schools, community organisations and decision-makers to support the call for universal free school meals for all primary school children.
No child should have to learn on an empty stomach. Every child deserves the chance to thrive, and every family deserves support with the essential cost of feeding their children.
Together, we can ensure that no child is left behind. Sign the petition here.