Free School Meals

Hello all,

I know there has been a lot in the news over the last few days about the voucher scheme for free school meals. We have been working hard to make sure we are ready if this scheme comes into operation. However, we are still waiting clarification on how or when it will work.

Our local authority is still providing packed lunches for eligible children at the moment! Here are some of the facts I know and a link to the government information page:

1. We can only issue if our LA cannot provide the service needed - we are waiting for further advice on this.

2. If issued the vouchers are term time only so the earliest it would start is 20/04/2020.

3. We can issue ecodes so will need your email addresses

4. The voucher is valued at £15 per child, each week and can only be spent on certain essential items

5. Children attending school will not get a voucher as school will provide their meal

Follow this link to find out more:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-free-school-meals-guidance/covid-19-free-school-meals-guidance-for-schools

It would be a good idea to now check if you are entitled to benefits-related free school meals as you may benefit from this scheme when it is all sorted!! Follow this link to find out more! https://www.gov.uk/apply-free-school-meals

I will let you know when I hear more.

Stay safe everyone.

Mrs Hignett