Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleAine FoxWednesday 12 August 2026 02:28 BSTHeadteacher says free school meals 'undermine personal responsibility'More than 500,000 additional pupils will become eligible for free school meals from September as the Government expands eligibility to all households on Universal Credit.A survey by the Child Poverty Action Group found that 55 per cent of affected parents are unaware of the change, raising concerns that many families will miss out.The policy expansion could save families up to £495 per child annually and is projected to lift around 100,000 children out of poverty.Charities and school leaders are urging the Government to directly inform families or implement auto-enrolment rather than placing the administrative burden on schools.The Department for Education highlighted that it is working with schools and local councils to ensure eligible parents are informed about the £1 billion initiative.In fullDoes my child qualify for free school meals? What to know as around 500,000 more pupils eligibleMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in