Political Opinion: Jake Richards MP: More children eligible for free school meals under Labour’s Plan for Change
I believe every child should arrive at school well-nourished and ready to learn.
That is why I welcome the Government’s decision to expand eligibility for free school meals, ensuring that more than half a million additional children across the country, including around 4,000 in Rother Valley, will receive a healthy meal during the school day.
The change follows Labour’s amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, landmark legislation designed to place children’s welfare at the centre of Government policy.
The measure forms part of Labour’s broader mission to widen opportunity while easing the financial pressure faced by families across the country.
From the start of the 2026 school year, every pupil in Rother Valley whose household receives Universal Credit will become eligible for free school meals.
This expansion will provide meaningful support for families who are finding it hardest to make ends meet.
For many parents, it will mean savings of around £500 per year, while ensuring their children have consistent access to nutritious food that supports learning and development.
Nationally, the policy represents the largest extension of the programme in years and is expected to lift around 100,000 children in England out of poverty.
Until now, eligibility rules introduced in 2018 meant that children only qualified if their household income was below £7,400 per year.
As a result, many families experiencing financial hardship were excluded from the scheme under the previous Conservative Government’s criteria.
Access to a healthy meal during the school day has been consistently linked with improved educational outcomes.
Research shows that when children are properly nourished, they are better able to concentrate in class, achieve stronger academic results and demonstrate improved behaviour at school.
Tackling child poverty and removing barriers to opportunity must remain a national priority.
By widening access to free school meals, the Government is taking a practical step that both supports families and helps ensure that every child has the foundation they need to succeed in education and beyond.