More families encouraged to apply for free school meals following eligibility changes

24 August 2026

Families across North Northamptonshire are being encouraged to check whether they are now eligible for free school meals following recent changes to the eligibility criteria.

The changes mean that more families receiving Universal Credit may now qualify for support, helping to ensure that more children have access to healthy meals during the school day and that schools receive additional funding through the Pupil Premium.

Never claimed for free school meals before?

North Northamptonshire Council is urging parents and carers who have never applied before to check their eligibility and submit an application as soon as possible.

Families who submitted an application before 1 July 2026 are also being asked to submit a new application to ensure their child is assessed under the current eligibility criteria. Those who applied on or after 1 July 2026 do not need to apply again, as their application is already being processed.

The council has seen a significant increase in applications following the changes. As a result, processing times are currently longer than usual, although every effort is being made to complete outstanding applications before the start of the new school year in September.

The council would also like to remind residents that the free school meals team operates as an email-only service and is unable to provide support by telephone. 

For more information about free school meals, eligibility criteria and how to apply, visit the council’s website.