17/06/2026
Free School Meals
Children approved for free school meals not only receive a healthy meal on every school day, but they also get,
• access to free holiday clubs (Holiday Activities & Food Programme)
• extra money for their school towards more teachers and activities (pupil premium)
• Holiday food vouchers, as long as funding continues
From September 2026 the government is expanding Free School Meals criteria so that all households who receive any level of Universal Credit can apply.
If you haven’t yet applied for free school meals but think you might be eligible, please complete the confidential online checker:
https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/w/free-school-meals
If you have any questions, please see the web page above or email [email protected]
You may also wish to check if you are eligible for Universal Credit. Earnings are not the only factor, so it is worth checking (https://www.gov.uk/universal-credit/how-to-claim)so that you are ready when FSM applications open on 1 June 2026.
If you think you might be eligible for Universal Credit, but need help claiming, you can contact Citizens Advice for help by calling 0800 144 8 444.
Free school meals for infant school children and for children whose parents receive financial support.
