Episode Details

Starting next month, hundreds of thousands of kids could get free school meals — but a major charity warns most parents don’t know they qualify. The new policy expands eligibility to families on universal credit, even if they earn slightly more than before, potentially saving families nearly $500 per child annually and lifting kids out of poverty. Yet a shocking new survey reveals over half of affected parents are unaware. The charity argues the government — not schools — should be the outreach arm, since they hold the data and can guide families through enrollment. School leaders agree it’s a good move, but say checking eligibility is adding unnecessary work; they’re calling for automatic enrollment using existing records to ensure kids get meals faster and reduce strain on schools. The Department for Education says they’re proud of the expansion and other support measures as they respond to the cost of living crisis.

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