The Guardian has published a piece on migrants’ eligibility to receive free school meals. It includes a claim that children are being denied free school meals because of their parents’ immigration status.
This is not the case. Free school meals are provided to all disadvantaged pupils who need them regardless of their nationality or immigration status.
A Government spokesperson said:
“No child is refused access to free school meals because of their immigration status. Free school meals are provided to disadvantaged pupils who need them and every child in Reception, Years 1 and 2 can get a free school meal, regardless of nationality or immigration status.
“If a family is deemed destitute and in need of financial support, the recourse to public funds condition will not be applied and their children will be able to get free school meals. In addition, families who qualify for support under Section VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 are also entitled to free school meals.”