Free school meals
There are more than 1,000 families in Sandwell who are eligible for free school meals for their children but don't claim for them. Sandwell Council's cabinet member for Children and Families Cllr Bob Badham said "not only are children missing out on a healthy nutritious meal that would cost £360 per year per child, but the more children registered as eligible for free school meals will lead to more pupil premiums paid to our schools".
Staff can do a quick online check to see if a family is eligible, all they need is the parent or guardian's date of birth and national insurance number.
Therefore if you are the parent or guardian of children at school and your annual income is less than £16,190 and claim child tax credit, you may be eligible for free school meals.
You may also qualify if you receive
- Employment and Support Allowance (Income Related)
- Income Support
- Guaranteed Pension Credit (including Child Tax Credit)
- Income-based Jobseekers Allowance
- If you are supported by the National Asylum Support Service
You are not eligible to claim free school meals or clothing assistance if you receive Working Tax Credit.
Further information and application forms are available on the links below or alternatively you can contact our Benefits Section at the following address:
Education Benefits and Transport
Sandwell Council House
Oldbury
West Midlands
B69 9EX
Tel: 0121 569 8271/8110/8183 or 8364