Families in Derbyshire are being urged to check to see if they are eligible for free school meals.

All children aged between four and seven – those in reception, Year 1 and Year 2 – are entitled to universal free school meals regardless of personal circumstances.

However, children in other school years – those aged between 3 and 18 years old – could also be entitled if they meet certain criteria.

If you receive any of the following, then your child/children could qualify for free school meals:

• Universal Credit, as long as you don’t have an annual net earned income of more than £616.67 per month
• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• support under Part 6 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• the guarantee element of State Pension Credit
• Child Tax Credit, as long as you’re not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of less than £16,190
• Working Tax Credit run-on

Councillor Alex Dale, cabinet member for education at Derbyshire County Council, said: “If you’re eligible, free school meals are a great way to save some money and provide pupils with a nutritious hot meal.

“You can check if you’re entitled to a meal at any time of the year but we’re encouraging parents to do it at the start of the new term to get the maximum benefit.

“It’s a very quick and easy online form and our team will be in touch within a week to let you know if you’re eligible.”

You can check your eligibility here or by calling 01629 536481.

Picture credit – Katrina_S from Pixabay