Free school meals

Extension of free school meals

Thanks to Welsh Government funding, councils across Wales are extending the availability of free school meals.

If you are not already claiming additional support and think you may be eligible, please see below for details and how to apply.

From September 2023, all Newport primary pupils in local authority-maintained schools will be able to have a free school meal.

How will my child receive these meals?

Pupils will be able to access these directly through their school at the start of term. You do not have to apply to receive a free school meal.

School holiday vouchers

The Welsh Government has ended the holiday vouchers scheme for those in receipt of certain benefits.

Other support and advice information.

What other support is available?

Families that have traditionally qualified for free school meals can still access additional support but must apply to the council.

Support includes:

School essentials grant
Discounts on school trips
Additional funding for the school

This is dependent on the income you receive and is subject to certain eligibility criteria as set out below. If you think you may be entitled to this support, please make an application.

Apply

Please note: An application for additional support only needs to be made if your child is not already entitled to free school meals. If your child is already receiving free school meals (prior to September 2023) these will be automatically rolled over into the new academic year. We are able to check your eligibility for the additional support without the need for you to reapply.

If you are unable to complete an application online, a paper form can be downloaded. Paper forms are also available via freeschoolmeals@newport.gov.uk or contact 01633 656656.

If your child has a special dietary, medically-diagnosed requirement please complete a medical diet request form, available from your school.

Eligibility criteria

Income Support or Income Based Jobseekers Allowance
Income Related Employment Support Allowance
Child Tax Credit (the annual income must be less than £16,190 for the household)
Guaranteed Element of State Pension Credit
National Asylum Seekers Support Benefit
Universal Credit up until March 2019;
From 1 April 2019, Universal Credit, provided the household has an annualised net earned income of no more than £7400 (as assessed by earnings from up to three of the most recent assessment periods).

Note: if you are in receipt of Working Tax Credit, you will NOT be eligible for the additional support detailed above.