News

Children from PVI settings excluded from free school meal expansion

Following the Government's move to expand free school meals to children in all families claiming Universal Credit, the sector is now calling for this to be extended to children attending PVI and childminder settings.
The research from the EYA and LEYF reveals the struggle many childcare providers are facing to provide nutritious meals due to rising living costs, PHOTO: Adobe Stock
PHOTO: Adobe Stock

Under the expansion, children in families who claim Universal Credit and attend a nursery school or a nursery in a primary school, are eligible, along with primary and secondary pupils. However those attending private, voluntary and independent settings, as well as a childminder are not.

At Early Education, a national charity supporting the early years sector, chief executive, Beatrice Merrick, said, ‘We welcome the news that more children will be eligible for free school meals in nursery and the simplification of the criteria.

‘However, at present children in nursery who are on Universal Credit will only qualify if they are on roll at a nursery in a primary or nursery school, and attending full-time or before and after lunch on the day in question.'

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here