The Scottish Government-Free School Meals

Free School Meals Initiative

Influence Inside Parliament:

• The Scottish Government has implemented a commendable initiative to ensure that all children up to primary four receive free school lunches. Additionally, older children and young people are eligible for this support if their parents are entitled to specific benefits, including Universal Credit or Income Support.

Key Features:

Universal Coverage:

• All children up to primary four enjoy the provision of free lunches, regardless of their family's financial circumstances.

Extended Eligibility:

• Older children and young individuals can benefit from free school meals if their parents meet specified criteria, such as being entitled to Universal Credit or Income Support.

Positive Impact:

• The Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) has highlighted the positive impact of this initiative, stating that it "increases disposable income," particularly benefiting parents with more than one child.
• Without this program, families with two children could spend as much as £685 annually on school lunches, underscoring the financial relief provided by this initiative.

Conclusion:

• The initiative to provide free school meals in Scotland exemplifies a commitment to equity and support for families, ensuring that children have access to nutritious meals without imposing financial burdens on parents.