Free School Meal (FSM) Eligibility
From September 2026, the Department for Education (DfE) will expand free school meal (FSM) eligibility to include all pupils from households receiving Universal Credit. This creates two categories:
- Targeted FSM: Based on the existing £7,400 income threshold
- Expanded FSM: Covers meals only for pupils in households receiving Universal Credit who do not qualify for Targeted FSM
Free school meals are available to pupils who are, or whose parents are, in receipt of:
- Universal Credit
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
A pupil is only eligible if:
- A claim has been made, and
- Eligibility has been verified by the school or local authority
Households may also qualify if they:
- Receive income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Receive the guarantee element of Pension Credit
- Meet criteria set out in separate guidance for families with no recourse to public funds
Under the expanded scheme from September 2026, Southend-on-Sea City Council advises applying after 15 June 2026:
Applying for free school meals / Southend-on-Sea City Council
We strongly encourage eligible families to apply.
Please note:
- Southend-on-Sea City Council cannot backdate claims to cover unpaid or previously paid costs
- Foster children are not usually eligible, as fostering allowances are intended to cover meal costs