As the school summer holidays begin, a Lancaster charity is urging parents and carers to check whether their child is eligible for free school meals.
Ahead of the new school year in September, Citizens Advice North Lancashire is reminding families that help is available if the cost of going back to school feels overwhelming.
All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 at state-funded schools in England already get free school meals automatically, regardless of household income or benefits. For children in Year 3 and above, eligibility depends on your circumstances.
From September 2026, free school meals in England are expanding to all children in a household that receives Universal Credit, regardless of how much you earn, with the previous cap removed.
Your child may be eligible for free school meals if your household receives Universal Credit or certain other qualifying benefits.
Applications can be made through Lancashire County Council. Applications are normally processed quickly, but Citizens Advice North Lancashire is encouraging families to apply as soon as possible and before the beginning of September.
Gemma Hollis, Schools Adviser at Citizens Advice North Lancashire, said: "It's summer holiday time, but I know parents like myself are already thinking about September and the costs that come with it.
‘’If your child is already getting free school meals, don't worry, the local authority has your details and will be in touch to check eligibility come September. But if your child isn't receiving free school meals and you think they should be, it's important to apply.
‘’To qualify, you'll need to be on Universal Credit or another qualifying benefit, or have special circumstances. It's a straightforward process, and applications should be processed quickly, but I'd really recommend doing it as soon as you can rather than leaving it to the last minute.
‘’And it's not just about school meals, our friends at Morecambe Bay Foodbank also run the Uniform Project, which helps with the cost of school uniforms. If you're struggling with any of this, please don't struggle alone, get in touch with me."
Morecambe Bay Foodbank's Uniform Project supports families with the cost of school uniforms. Parents can self-refer directly via the Uniform Project referral form.
Gemma will be working with families throughout the summer, offering support to apply for free school meals, benefits advice and other help.
You can email: enquiries@northlancashirecab.org.uk, mark the subject 'Free School Meals', or call 01524 481 508.
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