Half a Million More Pupils in England to Receive Free School Meals
Starting September 2026, 500,000 more children in families receiving Universal Credit will be eligible for free school meals in England. The government has earmarked £1 billion for the expansion, aiming to lift 100,000 children out of poverty. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson described it as a vital step to tackle child hunger and ensure no child goes to school hungry.