Free School Meals.
Information about Help with Free School Meals.How do I qualify for free school meals?
You must be in receipt of either Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance (Income-Based), Guaranteed Element of State Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit (income related) or receiving support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.
What if I have Income Support/Job Seeker's Allowance (Income-Based)?
A fully completed free school meal application must be submitted which indicates which benefit is being received i.e. Income Support or Job Seeker's Allowance (Income-Based). Job Seeker's Allowance (Contribution-Based) does not entitle you to receive free school meals.
What if I receive Child Tax Credit?
A current TC602 document must be provided as well as a completed free school meal application form. There must be no Working Tax being received, and the Annual Income for the family as shown on the document must be no greater than £15,575 (Subject to Government change) from April 2008.
What if I receive the Guaranteed Element of State Pension Credit?
A copy of Pension Credit Award Notice (M1000) or TC602 must be provided together with a completed free school meal application form.
What if I am an Asylum Seeker?
Those receiving support under part IV of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 should complete a free school meal application without providing a National Insurance Number. Instead claimants should provide their NASS Reference Number to confirm entitlement.
Does receipt of Working Tax Credit, qualify you to claim free school meals?
No, the Government does not allow us to recognise any other benefits other than those listed above. We will check with Government agencies for confirmation of your correct eligibility.
Anchor Point:applyHow do I apply?
Please collect an application from School or print out and complete an application form. Please return to the School Secretary or, during school holidays, The Education and Children's Services, School Asset Support Team, P.O. Box 20, Council House, Solihull, B91 9QU.
Who should fill in the application form?
The application form MUST be completed by the parent/guardian who is claiming for the child/ren and who is receiving the relevant benefit or credit.
Is it necessary to re-apply each year?
No, providing all details remain the same.
What if my child changes school?
A new application form must be completed for the new school.
What happens when my benefit ceases?
Free meals must stop as soon as your benefit or credit ceases.
Who do I inform if my benefit or credit ceases?
You should inform the school secretary or the Schools Asset Support Team on 0121 704 6611 or email freeschoolmeals@solihull.gov.uk. Alternatively, you can complete the Change of Circumstances form.
What happens if free school meals continue to be taken once my benefit ceases?
You will become liable for a charge for all free school meals taken from the date eligibility ceased.
How will the school know my child does not have to pay for school meals?
Completed applications where possible, should be returned to the relevant school. If more than one school is involved please make both schools aware that another school is also on the claim. During holidays applications can be returned to the School Asset Support Team at the address above. (See how do I apply?) When we have approved your application, we will send confirmation to the school.
If I have any queries with regard to entitlement or completion of the application form, what should I do?
Contact the School Asset Support Team on 0121 704 6611 or email freeschoolmeals@solihull.gov.uk or speak to the School Secretary.
Further Information
- If you have mislaid or not received your TC602 document which is required to claim with Child Tax Credit please telephone the Tax Credit Helpline on 0845 300 3900.
- If you have mislaid or not received your M1000, you can contact the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) on 0845 606 0265.
If you wish to discuss free school meals or for further advice, contact Lynne Rowson (SAST) on 704 6611.
Contact Details
For further information about free school meals,
Telephone: 0121 704 6611
Email: freeschoolmeals@solihull.gov.uk
Education and Children's Services School Asset Support Team
PO Box 20
Council House
Solihull B91 9QU