School lunch vouchers for Y1/Y2 children

Sillychuckie

I understand that Parents of children who usually get 'Free School Meals', are being provided with vouchers from the school to cover the period where the children are not at school due to coronavirus. However, I'm curious as to how this would work for children in Year 1, who already receive free school meals anyway. Would the schools know which children in Years 1 and 2 may qualify for free school meals, even though they aren't going to be enrolled actively in any such scheme?
SC

(Perhaps it is managed by the local council, so they will know who already receives benefits, and also provide for these families too. I'm unclear how it works).

kathynewbie09

This is an email that I got from my children's school that might give you some clarity.

Dear Mrs C, Bourne Abbey CE Primary Academy has sent you a message

Free School Meals Applications & Scam Warning

Dear Parent/Carer

We are aware that due to the current crisis many families are suddenly experiencing financial hardship. The government has indicated that it is planning a national response for families of students in need although we do not have any further details. We would recommend that any families that find themselves in this position apply for Pupil Premium funding. This should entitle students access to immediate support. We are currently looking at ways in which we can support students entitled to free school meals in advance of a national scheme. Pupil premium applications are completed online at: lincolnshire.gov.uk look for school pupil support and apply free school meals. (I have a link to it but can't post links as I am too new?)

In the meantime some schools in another Local Authority have already reported that parents and carers of children in receipt of free school meals are being targeted by fraudsters who are emailing parents and carers with messages such as  ‘If your child is entitled to free school meals send your bank details to the school and they will help with funding while the school is closed’. The email contains links to follow if they want to receive this funding – these links are fake. This is a scam. Please never share your bank details in this way.

Your best bet is if you think you are entitled to free school meals or you become entitled to free school meals then you should contact your local council or local authority and ask them about Pupil Premium funding. Hope this helps in some way.

kathynewbie09

Universal Free School meals are exempt from what the government is providing it is only if they are getting Free School meals due to benefits.

mellyc

Maybe go online and apply for free school meals? It tells you almost immediately if you’re eligible and if so they inform your child’s school. 

I have 5 children (2 are in grammar school and I have claimed free school meals and the younger 2 are both below Yr 2 so get free school meals anyway) If you apply and successful then the child’s school will apply for the government food vouchers on your behalf and they will be emailed to you. 

NOTE if you’re expecting this email then always check your spam/junk because that’s where my emails for the vouchers always end up