Expansion of Free School Meals to Secondary Pupils in Households Receiving Universal Credit
Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council is pleased to announce the rollout of the Welsh Government's (WG) expansion of Free School Meals for secondary school pupils in households receiving Universal Credit (UCFSM).
This expansion applies to families who receive Universal Credit but were previously unable to access Free School Meals because they did not meet the existing income threshold for means-tested Free School Meals.
To qualify for UCFSM, parents or carers must be in receipt of Universal Credit.
Applications for pupils in Years 7 and 8 whose parents or carers receive Universal Credit will open from Monday 14th September, with the phased rollout outlined below.
Rollout Timetable
- 14th September: Applications open for pupils in Years 7 and 8.
- 21st September: Eligible Year 7 pupils can begin accessing Free School Meals.
- After October half-term: The scheme will be extended to eligible Year 8 pupils.
At present, the Council has not received confirmation from WG of any plans to extend the scheme to Year 9 pupils during this financial year. We will provide further updates on the rollout to other year groups as more information becomes available.
Who Needs to Apply?
Parents and carers who receive Universal Credit and whose children in Years 7 and 8 are not currently receiving Free School Meals should submit an application.
Applications can be made via: Apply for Free School Meals | Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council
Once eligibility has been confirmed, both parents/carers and schools will be notified.
When Will Free School Meals Start?
Following confirmation of entitlement, pupils will be able to access their Free School Meal entitlement within five school days.
This allows sufficient time for schools and the Council's catering service to make the necessary system updates and arrangements.
Using the Entitlement
The Universal Credit Free School Meal (UCFSM) entitlement can be used during:
- Mid-morning break
- Lunchtime
This is the same arrangement currently in place for pupils receiving means-tested Free School Meals.
Supporting Pupils and Families
We encourage all parents and carers of pupils in Years 7 and 8 who receive Universal Credit, but who do not currently qualify for means-tested Free School Meals, to submit an application as soon as possible.
For further information, please contact FSMApply@merthyr.gov.uk