As per my previous news notification regarding the new FSM notification, the process has now reverted to the online form again.
The Department for Education has issued new guidance regarding Free School Meal (FSM) eligibility. Please see information regarding this change by clicking
here.
Free School Meals – Important Information
You may be eligible for Free School Meals (FSM) if you receive Universal Credit (with a net earned income below £7,400 per year) or certain other qualifying benefits, including Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance,
Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit), or support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.
Young people aged 16–18 who remain in school may also qualify if they receive Income Support or income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance in their own right.
Families must inform the council of any changes to their income or circumstances, as this may affect FSM entitlement. However, if your child is currently receiving FSM, their award will continue until July 2026 regardless of any changes to household income.
Changes from September 2026:
From September 2026, all children attending eligible schools whose households receive Universal Credit will be entitled to Free School Meals.
There will be two FSM categories:
- Targeted FSM – for households receiving Universal Credit with annual earnings of £7,400 or less. These pupils will continue to attract pupil premium and other disadvantage funding for their school.
- Expanded FSM – for households receiving Universal Credit with earnings above £7,400 per year. These pupils will receive Free School Meals but will not attract additional disadvantage funding.
Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 Pupils
All children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 are entitled to a free school meal. If you receive a qualifying benefit, you should still apply for FSM as this may provide access to additional support, such as help with school trips, travel costs, school uniforms
and music lessons.
Please note that children are entitled to Free School Meals but are not required to take a school meal if they prefer not to.
Please note that applications must be made through the Bradford Council website, you can find further information and submit your applications using the link below:
Free School Meals | Bradford Council
We would encourage you to complete your application as soon as possible to ensure your child’s entitlement is in place for the start of the new academic year.
All applications must be made through the online form.
Thank you for your continued cooperation!