FAQs
What are universal free school meals and how do I apply for them?
All children in key stage 1 (reception class, year 1 and year 2) are automatically entitled to have a free school meal through universal infant free school meals (UIFSM). You don't have to apply for universal infant free school meals, but in order for your child's school to recognise who is eligible for universal meals and who qualifies for benefits-based targeted FSM for funding purposes, we encourage all parents who meet the eligibility criteria for targeted FSM to apply.
I qualify for free school meals, but the school will know about my financial situation if I apply. Can I apply without the school knowing how much I receive in benefits?
The arrangements for checking benefit evidence don't disclose how much you receive, or even which benefit you receive.
I have just lost/given up my job - can I claim free school meals?
To be eligible to claim free school meals you have to be in receipt of one of the qualifying benefits.
I'm not sure whether I qualify for free school meals
If you have any doubt as to whether you can claim free school meals, please call our Customer Services Team on 0345 678 9008 for helpful advice.
Why have my free school meals been cancelled?
If there's a problem with your entitlement, please call our Customer Services team on 0345 678 9008, who will be happy to help and advise you.
My children go to different schools - should I complete a separate application form for free school meals for each child?
The award is made for the family/household. You can include all your children on one form, as long as they all attend state-funded schools within the Shropshire Council area, where the schools ask us to process their free school meals applications on their behalf. Please be aware that there are some schools who have a different process in place for their free school meals applications.
Shropshire parents whose children attend schools in another local authority area should contact that authority for the award of free school meals.
My child has just started school and already has brothers and sisters who get free school meals - do I need to re-apply?
Yes. You need to submit an application for the new child.
Moving schools and free school meals
If your child is moving schools within the Shropshire Council area and both schools use Shropshire Council for their free school meals checking service, for pupils who are in receipt of benefits-based free school meals, their eligibility will transfer across to the new school as soon as the new school completes their admissions processes.
If your child is moving to a Shropshire school from an out of area school, you need to apply for free school meals. Please check that the new school uses our checking service.