Scottish primary school children in primaries one to five will benefit from free school meals in 2022.
Last year the Scottish Government and local authority partners introduced universal free school lunches for primary four and five children. Targeted support during the holidays for all eligible primary and secondary children was also announced.
The roll-out of the free lunches began in August 2021 with P4 pupils but has been extended to those in primary five this month. Costing £28 million, the commitment will deliver free school lunches for youngsters.
Meanwhile, a further £21.75 million will provide targeted free school meal support during school holidays in 2021-22.
Support during the holidays began last summer in a bid to help 145,000 primary and secondary children from low-income households.
Councils determine what support is appropriate to local needs during the holidays and can include the provision of direct payments, vouchers or food parcels.
Free lunches play a part in reducing the impact of poverty
Speaking of the universal free school lunch scheme, Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “Free school meals are a vital support to thousands of children and young people across the country – ensuring that children have access to a free, healthy and nutritious meal every day they are in school and are ready to engage in learning.
“The provision of £49.75 million in new funding to local authorities demonstrates our support for the health and wellbeing of children and young people and our commitment to reducing the impact of poverty on thousands of families across the country.”
Her sentiments were echoed by Councillor Stephen McCabe of COSLA who said he hoped the funding would empower youngsters to thrive within their local communities.
Councillor McCabe added: “Local authorities will continue to work hard to ensure that children and young people have access to healthy and nourishing meals so that they are fully able to learn, play, and engage with their peers and communities.”
Further help with school costs is available
While the universal free school meal scheme has been welcomed, parents are being encouraged to be aware of the additional financial support available to cover school costs.
Citizens Advice Scotland has offered a reminder that the new scheme is different from free school meals because of a family’s income.
The charity is urging parents on a low-income to register for free school meals with their local authority as this can open the door to additional support such as Scottish Child Payment bridging payments.
If you’re a parent or a person with parental responsibilities for a child, you may be entitled to more financial help, depending on your circumstances. From paying for transport to and from school to covering the price tag attached to school uniforms, families should be aware of the help available.
You can find out more about the financial support offered, eligibility criteria and how to apply, here.
Alternatively, if you’re worried about your finances generally and are looking for support with debt, talk to Carrington Dean. Our advisors are on hand to provide confidential advice to help you find a solution tailored to your circumstances.
