Thousands of parents across the UK could be missing out on a significant financial benefit due to a little-known rule about free school meals. While many assume eligibility ends when household income exceeds certain thresholds, a crucial exception exists that could save families up to £480 per child annually.
The Hidden Clause That Changes Everything
Under current regulations, children remain entitled to free school meals even if their parents' income rises above the standard threshold – provided they were eligible at any point since April 2018. This "transitional protection" rule means families who qualified during the COVID-19 pandemic or subsequent cost-of-living crisis might still be eligible today.
Who Exactly Qualifies?
The policy applies when:
- The child was receiving free school meals on or after 1 April 2018
- The household's income has since increased above the threshold
- The child remains at the same school or moves to another in the same local authority
This protection continues until the child completes their current phase of education (primary or secondary), potentially saving families hundreds of pounds during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
Why Most Parents Don't Know About This
Education experts suggest the lack of awareness stems from several factors:
- Complex benefit rules that change frequently
- Limited communication from schools about ongoing eligibility
- The assumption that increased income automatically disqualifies families
Local authorities have reported that thousands of eligible families fail to claim what they're entitled to, leaving substantial sums unclaimed each year.
How To Check Your Eligibility
Parents unsure about their status should:
- Contact their child's school office directly
- Check with their local council's education department
- Review previous correspondence about free school meals
With food prices remaining high, this little-known rule could provide crucial financial relief for many families across the country.
