Following this morning's Government information release re the new Free School Meals voucher scheme, I can confirm that according to Government guidance, only children eligible to claim benefit related Free School Meals will be entitled to receive vouchers and not those in receipt of Universal Free School Meals. Here is an extract from the guidance, a link to which I have included at the end of this post.

Will every child at home due to school closures receive support?

This support focuses on those eligible for benefits-related free school meals.

Will pupils who become newly eligible for free school meals be supported?

Yes. Schools and local authorities should continue to accept free school meal applications. Parents should make contact with the school or local authority, who will verify eligibility and award free school meals.

What is the eligibility criteria for free school meals?

The eligibility criteria for free school meals can be found on apply for free school meals.

What about infants that receive a free meal under universal infant free school meals?

It is right that schools concentrate their effort and resources on those who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals at this time. There is no requirement to continue to provide universal infant free school meals to pupils in reception, year 1, or year 2 who are unable to attend school. Children in those year groups who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals will be supported.

 

As soon as I receive communication from the company tasked with arranging vouchers, I will ensure that our office staff makes contact with parents of children eligible to claim benefit related Free School Meals. Please ensure that, if you are eligible to claim, you have provided the school office with an email address - this is most likely how vouchers will be issued. If you think you may be eligible to claim for benefit related Free School Meals, please make sure that you apply straight away.

I know that many of you whose children currently receive Universal Free School Meals will be unhappy that this scheme does not enable you to access financial support and I understand your frustration, which will be mirrored across the country. I must stress, however, that this is a Government initiative and not a school or Multi Academy Trust initiative. We continue to be led by Government policy in these difficult and challenging times.

Be safe.

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