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In a groundbreaking initiative, a multitude of families in Liverpool are set to reap the benefits of a new program that will automatically enroll qualifying children for free school meals. Although approximately 26,000 households in the city currently receive free school meals, national statistics indicate that nearly one in ten children are not taking advantage of this crucial support. The Council’s primary goal is to enhance participation rates by simplifying the enrollment process, ensuring that every child enjoys a nutritious meal during school hours, and easing the financial burden on parents by saving them around £500 annually.
Identified as an essential part of enhancing children’s well-being and academic performance, approximately 550 children in Liverpool who are not presently enrolled in the free school meals program will receive direct outreach from their parents or caregivers to assist them in applying. If they do not apply, the Council will automatically grant free school meals, unless they explicitly opt-out. Furthermore, this initiative will amplify Pupil Premium funding for each child’s school, which currently amounts to £1,480 for primary schools and £1,050 for secondary schools.
Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, Resources, and Transformation, Councillor Ruth Bennett, emphasized the Council’s dedication to providing every child in Liverpool with a solid foundation and access to vital resources like free school meals. She expressed that the automatic enrollment system guarantees that every eligible child receives the support they need. Similarly, Cabinet Member for Employment, Educational Attainment, and Skills, Councillor Joanne Kennedy, highlighted the significance of a nourishing meal during the school day in fostering an optimal learning environment for children, especially during challenging times for families.
This move is in alignment with the recent announcement by the UK Government that families receiving Universal Credit will qualify for free school meals starting in September 2026. The government projects that this measure will alleviate 100,000 children out of poverty on a national scale. Families interested in determining their eligibility for free school meals can find more information and register online at the Liverpool City Council’s website
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