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Building shot of the front of The Boulevard Academy

Free School Meals

National updates from the Department for Education regarding Free School Meals (FSM) will take effect from September 2026.

 

These changes mean that more families will qualify for free meals, whilst the system for checking existing claims is changing.​

 

What is changing?​

 

  • Expanded Eligibility

This scheme was expanded so that, from September 2026, all families in receipt of University Credit are now entitled to receive free school meals. If you were previously told you earned too much to qualify under University Credit, you will now be eligible.​

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  • Ending of Transitional Protections

Local Authorities must now re-check existing claims against current income criteria.​

 

What do you need to do?​

 

  • If your child does not currently receive free school meals, but you receive Universal Credit:

Apply now. You are likely eligible. Applying not only provides free meals for your child, but also allows your school to benefit from vital extra funding (Pupil Premium) to continue to support your child's education.​

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  • If your child already receives free school meals:

You do not need to apply. The Local Authority will already be reviewing existing claims using current data to confirm ongoing eligibility for September. Only take action if the council contacts you directly to say your entitlement has changed.​​

 

How to apply​

 

Apply via the Hull City Council website here.

Content Protected

You can apply for free school meals if your child attends a Hull school on a full time basis by registering on My School Portal and completing the online form. You can also collect a paper application form from the Academy office. To apply you must be in receipt of one of the following benefits –

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  • income support

  • income based jobseekers allowance

  • income related employment and support allowance (ESA – IR)

  • universal credit if the household is earning less than £7,400 per year

  • asylum seekers (receiving support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999)

  • the guaranteed element of state pension credit

  • child tax credit (with an annual income of no more than £16,190 as assessed by the Inland Revenue)

  • working tax credit run on – paid for four weeks after you stop qualifying for working tax credit

 

Hull City Council will notify you of the decision by letter within seven days and the Academy will be notified electronically if you are approved.

 

For more information of Free School Meals please visit the Hull City Council website by clicking here.

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