We thought that we would take the opportunity to remind parents of the criteria for awarding free school meals.
If you have a child in Reception, Year 1 or Year 2 they are entitled to a free school meal and school asks parents to complete an application on admission to school.
If your have a child in Year 3 or above free school meals can only be awarded if you or partner is in receipt of one of the qualifying benefits:
- Income Support or Job Seekers Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance;
- Pension Guarantee Credit;
- Child Tax Credit, where Working tax Credit is NOT in payment AND your annual income does not exceed £16,190 9as determined by HM revenues and Customs);
- Working Tax Credit ‘Run On’ ( A 4-week payment when your employment has ceased or your working hours reduce belwo 16)
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration & Asylum Act 1999
- Universal Credit
Free school meals will only be awarded on receipt of a completed, approved application form and will commence from that date. Please note that applications cannot be back-dated. The Revenues and Benefits Service at Herefordshire Council should be notified immediately of any changes to your circumstances as this could affect your entitlement to school meals.
Further information and application forms are available through the school office.
