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This petition was submitted during the 2019 to 2024 Parliament

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Closed Review and increase the income thresholds for Free School Meals

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I would like the Government to review eligibility for free school meals, and increase earning thresholds above which people are not entitled to free school meals.

The cost of living has increased over the years and more so this year, and eligibility for free school meals should reflect this.

For many of us the recent cost of living increases mean we are choosing to either eat hot meals or heat our homes.

If the income thresholds for free school meals were increased thousands more children could be entitled to hot school meals.

There are some families on Universal Credit who have had to work more hours when their youngest child reaches 5, to retain their benefits. This will normally mean they no longer qualify for free school meals, due to the current income threshold.

The income threshold for free school meals for Universal Credit claimants was set in 2018, and has not been increased since, despite increased minimum wages and cost of living.

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  • Related activity

    Provision of free school meals debated by MPs

    MPs held a debate on the provision of free school meals on Tuesday 7 May in Westminster Hall. The debate was led by Munira Wilson MP.

    The Minister for Schools, Damian Hinds MP, responded on behalf of the Government.

    During the debate MPs discussed the value of free school meals for children's health, well-being and educational attainment.
    In response, the Minister outlined the extent of free school meal support currently in place and the vital role it plays in supporting disadvantaged children.

    What is a Westminster Hall debate?

    Westminster Hall is the second chamber of the House of Commons. Westminster Hall debates give MPs an opportunity to raise local and national issues and receive a response from a government minister. Westminster Hall debates are general debates that do not end in a vote.

    Visual explainer: Westminster Hall debates

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    This petition will stay open until 25 October 2022.