Changes to Free School Meals - September 2026

Changes to Free School Meals for some families who have children in Years 7 and 8 in Secondary School from September 2026

The Welsh Government has announced plans to expand eligibility for Free School Meals (FSM) for families in receipt of Universal Credit from September 2026, starting with children in years 7 & 8. These will be known as expanded free school meals (expanded FSM).

What does this mean for Powys families?

Families receiving Universal Credit will be able to apply from 14 September 2026.

Families will be able to apply through the current Free School Meals application process here

https://en.powys.gov.uk/article/11906/Free-school-meals
Once your application has been received and checked for eligibility, you will receive a letter notifying you of the outcome.

If your child is able to access expanded FSM through the scheme, you will be able to access a free meal from the date of the award. This will remain in place for the remainder of the academic year. You will then need to apply for your child to receive meals in the following academic year if you are still in receipt of Universal Credit.