Did you know – if you are on benefits, your child may be entitled to free school meals?

Every day children and young people across Leeds are missing out on their free school meal. Child Friendly Leeds encourages families to check if they are eligible – it could save over £12.50 a week for each child.

Who is entitled to Free School Meals?

If you are the parent, foster parent, network family carer or guardian of children at school, and you are on a low income, you could be entitled to free school meals.

Young people, who are still at school but receive income support in their own right, can also receive free school meals.

Children may be eligible for free school meals if their parents or carers receive any of the following benefits:

• income support
• income based Job Seeker’s Allowance
• income based Employment and Support Allowance
• Child Tax Credit with an annual income of less than £16,190
• the guaranteed element of the State Pension Credit
• the guaranteed element of Pension Credit
• support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• Universal Credit with an annual income of less than £7,400
• If you are currently receiving National Asylum Seekers Support

If you’re on any of the above benefits, it’s still important to register for a free school meal to ensure your child’s school doesn’t miss out on additional funding called pupil premium.

If you get Working Tax Credit, your child will not qualify.

For further information and how to apply visit the Leeds City Council website