Free school meals

Who is entitled?

Free school meals are not provided automatically. Free school meals can be given if you fall into one of the following categories:

  • you receive Income Support
  • you receive Job Seeker's Allowance (income-based)
  • you receive Employment and Support Allowance (income-related)
  • you get support under part six of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
  • you receive the guarantee credit element of Pension Credit
  • you are entitled to Child Tax Credit, you do not get Working Tax Credit and your family's annual income (as assessed by the Inland Revenue) is not more than £16,190. Anyone receiving Working Tax Credit is not entitled to free school meals regardless of their income unless you have become unemployed in which case free meals can be granted for a four week period only.

How do I apply?

Complete the following form and return it to the Admissions and Transport team:

You can also apply by completing the application form (FM1) and taking it along to your child's school. Our Electronic Checking Service may be able to confirm entitlement but if not, you may need to show up-to-date proof that you meet the qualifying criteria.

Reviewing your application

Once entitlement is established, free school meals are continuous unless we are notified of a change in your circumstances. It is your responsibility to notify us of any changes that may affect your entitlement to free school meals.

If you do not tell us of a change and your child continues to receive free meals when not entitled, you may build up a debt which will have to be repaid.

The local authority where your child attends school is responsible for the provision of free school meals. So, if your child attends an East Sussex school you should apply to us (or to the school direct) but if your child goes to school outside the county, you will need to speak to the school to find out who will deal with your application.

Part time pupils

Part time pupils are not entitled to free school meals. Children who qualify must be receiving education before and after the lunch period to be entitled to free school meals.

For further information: