Free School Meals
We appreciate that for some families, household income may be an issue. At Reddish Vale, we want to ensure that all our parents and carers are aware of the availability of Free School Meals to those who are eligible.
Free School Meal Eligibility Changes – September 2026
What is changing?
From September 2026, all children whose parent or carer receives Universal Credit will be entitled to Free School Meals, regardless of household earnings.
End of Transitional Protection
Temporary protections which were allowing children to continue receiving Free School Meals without rechecking eligibility will end at the close of the 2025–2026 academic year. From September 2026:
- Eligibility will be re-checked each June/July.
- All families must meet the current eligibility criteria to continue receiving Free School Meals.
What do you need to do?
Even if your income has increased since your last application, your child may still qualify under the new system.
If you receive Universal Credit, please apply now – even if you have applied previously (prior to 1st June 2026).
Applications for free school meals should be submitted through the Stockport Council website https://www.stockport.gov.uk/start/free-school-meals-application-form
If you have not applied since 1 June 2026, please do so now to ensure that your child continues to receive free meals.
The school will be notified once eligibility is confirmed. Submitting an application does not mean meals will start immediately.
For guidance and support please visit the Stockport Council website where you can find further information about the changes https://www.stockport.gov.uk/free-school-meals
Free school meals eligibility
Pupils at the school can receive free school meals up to the value of £2.50 per day if you receive any of the following:
- Income Support
- income-based Jobseekers Allowance
- income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Universal Credit (provided your household income is less than £7,400 a year after tax and not including any benefits you get)
- support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- the guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
What difference does applying for Free School Meals make?
Reddish Vale want to ensure all our families receive the support they are entitled to. Being eligible for Free School Meals will ensure your child receives a meal at lunch time every day whilst in school.
Reddish Vale also receives additional funding for every eligible pupil who is registered for free school meals. Pupil premium funding from the government is given to schools to help pupils reach their full potential, regardless of their background or financial situation.
To apply for free school meals, please click here. You will need your National Insurance Number.
If you have a query about free school meals you can email benefitsfsm@stockport.gov.uk