Free School Meals and Uniform Grants – do not delay applying

Applications for Free School Meals and Uniform Grants are now open. You do not need to wait until the start of the school year to apply for this valuable support

Eligibility and how to apply

To be eligible for free school meals and a uniform grant, households need to be in receipt of a qualifying benefit, such as Universal Credit and have annual net household earnings not exceeding £15,390.

Children with a Statement of Special Educational Needs (Stage 3) who require a medically prescribed special diet may be eligible for Free School Meals even if their parent/carer is not in receipt of a qualifying benefit or they are in receipt of Universal Credit but are above the earnings threshold.

For more information and how to apply for Free School Meals and the Uniform Grant go to www.eani.org.uk/parents/pupil-applications-and-grants/free-school-meals-uniform-grants

The Education Authority will aim to inform parents of their decision within 4 weeks of receiving the application, however during peak times, such as August and September, the processing period can take up to 5 weeks.

Payment of the Uniform Grant will be made directly to the bank or building society account that you gave on the application. If no bank/building society details were entered or if you gave incorrect account details you will receive a cheque by post.

How much is this support worth

There is no alternative financial assistance that can be awarded in lieu of free school meals, this also means that no back payments can be made.

Further information

To find out if your family could be entitled to free school meals or a uniform grant – or other financial support – contact the Family Benefits Advice Service on fbas@employersforchildcare.org.