Apply now for expanded free school meals rollout

Families with children in Years 7 and 8 who receive Universal Credit are now being invited to apply for free school meals.

As part of the Welsh Government's expansion of free school meals for secondary school learners, all pupils in these year groups living in households claiming Universal Credit are eligible, regardless of income.

Applications are now open, and you can apply online at: Free school meals - Cardiff Council

Meals will become available no later than January 2027.

After an application has been received, it will be assessed and parents and carers will be contacted once eligibility has been confirmed.

Cardiff Council is working with schools and catering teams across the city to prepare for the rollout and to understand the expected demand. This will ensure the necessary staffing, catering capacity and kitchen facilities are in place.

A start date will then be announced and will be no later than January 2027, the council says.

Cardiff Council cabinet member Sarah Merry said: "This expansion of free school meals is welcome news for many families and will help ensure more young people can benefit from a meal during the school day."