As the cost of living continues to cause concern for families, Cyngor Gwynedd is focusing on ensuring that every eligible family is made aware of their entitlement to free school meals and how to apply. This measure is key to easing financial pressure on families as children return to school.
Every child attending a primary school in Gwynedd is eligible for free school meals. In addition, the Welsh Government has announced an extension meaning that learners in Years 7 and 8 from households receiving Universal Credit will also be eligible from September 2026. Local authorities will provide meals to all eligible learners in Years 7 and 8 as soon as it’s practical, and no later than the first day of the January 2027 term.
How to check and receive support:
- Cyngor Gwynedd’s Benefits Service has identified a number of families who may be eligible and eligibility checks are underway.
- If entitlement is confirmed, learners will be added immediately to the lists sent to schools, and parents or carers will receive written confirmation.
- There is no need to complete an application form if a family receives Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction from Cyngor Gwynedd, as entitlement is assessed automatically.
- If a family is not currently receiving financial support but believes they may be eligible, they can complete a form on the Council’s website: Free school meals - Cyngor Gwynedd (opens in new tab).
Councillor Nia Jeffreys, Leader of Cyngor Gwynedd, said:
Ensuring that children receive a healthy and consistent meal at school is a simple but effective step in supporting families.
If a family can receive free school meals, that removes one major worry from their list - not just money for food, but peace of mind for parents and carers.
We encourage every family to check their entitlement and make use of the support available.”
Dewi Jones, Cyngor Gwynedd’s Cabinet Member for Education, said:
The extension of the scheme to include learners in Years 7 and 8 is an important step towards ensuring fairness for children across the county.
This will help reduce barriers to learning and ensure that children start the day with sufficient food.
We encourage anyone who is finding it difficult to cope with the cost of living to look at the support and information available to families on our website: Cost of living help - Cyngor Gwynedd (opens in new tab). Alternatively, you are welcome to call into one of Gwynedd’s Community Hubs or the county’s libraries for information and support.”