Changes to Free School Meals Eligibility from September 2026
The Department for Education has announced changes to the eligibility criteria for Free School Meals (FSM), which will come into effect from September 2026.
Under the new rules, all children from households receiving Universal Credit will be entitled to a free school meal, regardless of household earnings.
Before the start of the new academic year, the Local Authority will review all existing Free School Meal claims and will continue to do so annually. If your child remains eligible, their Free School Meals will continue automatically. If your child is no longer eligible following the review, you will be notified via the South Gloucestershire Citizen Portal.
Families who have not previously qualified for Free School Meals, or whose application was unsuccessful in the past, may now be eligible under the new criteria and are encouraged to apply. The online application process is quick, confidential and provides an immediate eligibility check.
To apply, please visit: South Glos LIFE | School meals
If you require any support with the application process, please contact the school office, who will be happy to help.