UK Expands Free Lunch Program
- inquiries800
- Jul 7
- 1 min read
In a significant move to combat child poverty, the UK government has announced an expansion of the free school meals program, set to commence in September 2026. This policy change will make all children in households receiving Universal Credit eligible for free school meals, regardless of income level. Previously, eligibility was restricted to families earning less than £7,400 annually, which excluded many children living in poverty. The Department for Education estimates that this expansion will benefit over 500,000 additional children and lift approximately 100,000 out of poverty. The policy has been welcomed by various charities and education leaders, who view it as a crucial measure to alleviate financial pressures on low-income families and improve children's well-being and academic performance.
Image via The Independent
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