More than a quarter of Cardiff primary children missing out on free school meals
Cardiff Council is encouraging families to take advantage of free school meals, especially during the cost-of-living crisis
More than 25% of primary-aged children in Cardiff are missing out on free school meals, according to the latest figures.
The Universal Free School Meals scheme is available to all primary-aged pupils in the city but remains underutilised.
Cardiff Council is encouraging families to take advantage of free school meals, especially during the cost-of-living crisis coupled with the festive season’s added financial pressures.
Since the scheme's rollout in 2022, it has provided thousands of children access to hot, balanced meals, helping families save up to £57 per month.
Families can pre-order meals online through the ParentPay account system without signing up for the initiative.
"Families can be reassured that school meals provides a range of benefits"
Cllr Sarah Merry, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, said:
“We know that providing healthy and nutritious school meals has a positive impact on learners and our school catering teams have developed a varied and inclusive menu for children to enjoy, meeting the requirements set by Welsh Government.
"In addition, with the use of Welsh, British and certified products, families can be reassured that opting for school meals provides a range of positive benefits.
“We are committed to making sure that the financial squeeze does not get in the way of education, ensuring no child goes hungry and that every pupil has the energy and nutrition needed to succeed.
"I encourage all families to take advantage of this important provision so that they receive the support that they are entitled, ensuring their children benefit from the positive impact of hot school meals.”
Cardiff Council is also urging families who receive benefits to register for Free School Meals if their children are of secondary school age or older.
Financial aid, such as the Welsh Government School Essentials Grant, is available to help with costs including uniforms, sports equipment, and stationery
Uniform recycling schemes and donation initiatives, like those provided by the charity A Better Fit, are also available in many Cardiff schools.