Derbyshire Now – 10th July 2026 Edition

Could you get free school meals?

Do you get Universal Credit? From the start of the 2026 academic year all children whose families receive Universal Credit will be entitled to receive a free meal regardless of household income.

Under current rules, only families who are entitled to Universal Credit and receive £7,400 or less per year from employment qualify for a free lunch for their children. The expanded eligibility will mean many more children will be able to receive a free nutritious meal.

All pupils in reception, year 1 and year 2 will continue to get free meals under the universal free school meals policy.

Families are encouraged to apply and check if they are eligible.

Read more – https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDCC/bulletins/41f5bea