Petition · Department for Education

Fund free school meals for all children up to the age of 16

Open for signatures 23 signatures

What the petition asks

The cost of food is rising daily and many families are struggling. We believe this can be addressed by giving all children up to the age of 16 free school meals. Families will save at least £199 a year per child per year & this would help with the cost of living crisis. Help support all families!
After receiving a letter from the Government saying that my children no longer qualify for free school meals I’ve decided it’s time to make a change. Having free school meals would give families peace of mind that children are having a hot healthy meal. The Government’s policy change comes into force in September 2026 and means children will only get free school meals if their parents are in receipt of universal credit, guaranteed element of pension credit or under support of Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. Please make a change for all children.

Timeline

28 Aug 2026 Petition opened for signatures

Key facts

Signatures 23
Status Open for signatures
Department Department for Education
Opened 28 Aug 2026

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 29 Aug 2026.