Half a Million More Children to Get Free School Meals in England

England Expands Free School Meals Program: 500,000 More Children to Benefit LONDON, England – In a significant policy shift, the UK government announced a major expansion of its free school meals program, effective 2026. An additional 500,000 children will become eligible, bringing much-needed relief to families struggling amidst the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. The initiative will extend free meals to all children in households receiving Universal Credit, removing the current income threshold of £7,400 per year. This £1 billion investment is expected to lift an estimated 100,000 children out of poverty, according to government projections. The move is widely seen as a positive step towards addressing child poverty and ensuring children have access to nutritious meals while at school. "This is a significant step forward in tackling child poverty," said a government spokesperson. "We are committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed, and access to nutritious food is a vital part of that." Despite the expansion, advocates for universal free school meals continue their campaign. Jamie Oliver, a prominent chef and campaigner, has long championed the cause, highlighting the positive impact of universal free school meals on children's health and education. The success of the program in London, where all primary school children receive free meals, serves as a model for national implementation. The expansion of the free school meals program marks a positive development in the ongoing efforts to support families and children in England.