Ollie U

I feel a deep sense of relief and hope hearing about the government's plan to extend free school meals to all children in households receiving Universal Credit from September 2026. As a parent and carer, I know how much pressure school costs can add to an already stretched budget. This change could save families like mine up to £500 per child each year, which is significant when every pound counts.

More importantly, this move acknowledges that no child should go hungry at school. It’s heartbreaking to think of children trying to learn while hungry, and this policy could help lift 100,000 children out of poverty.

However, I do worry about the delay until 2026. Families are struggling now, and immediate action would make a real difference. I also hope the government considers automatic enrolment to ensure no eligible child misses out due to administrative barriers.

This policy is a positive step towards addressing child poverty, but I hope it's just the beginning of broader support for families in need.