Free school meals
Information about free school meals and how to know if your child is eligible.
Is my child eligible for free school meals?
Free school meals are a statutory benefit. The Government does not allow us to recognise any other benefit other than those mentioned below. If you are not sure, please get in touch with the School Benefits and Transport team using the contact information at the bottom of the page.
Free school meals are available to children of families who are in receipt of:
- Income Support/Guaranteed Credit (pension) or Income based Job Seekers Allowance
- or support under Part 6 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- or in receipt of Child Tax Credit only, with a yearly income of less than £14,495. Award notice TC602
Proof of benefit
You will need to provide up to date documentation or recent proof of receipt with your application.
Please bring one of the following to support your application:
- Recent confirmation letter of Income Support / Job Seekers Allowance I/B
- Bank statement that shows your name, address, National Insurance number and the words DWP I/S or Job Seekers Allowance I/B
- Inland Revenue award notice TC602 for the current tax year 2007/2008
- Current NASS documentation
Please note: you are NOT entitled to free school meals if you are in receipt of Working Tax Credit.
How do I apply for free school meals?
To apply, you need to complete an application form. These are available from the School Benefits and Transport team using the contact details at the bottom of the page. Please submit your forms with proof of benefit.
The Office is open:
- 8.30am - 5.00pm Monday to Thursday
- 8.30am - 4.30pm Friday.
How often do I have to apply?
You should apply when you first start to receive benefit. Your eligibility will be reviewed after12 months and a renewal form will be sent to you automatically.
How will the school know my child does not have to pay for school meals?
The schools concerned will be notified directly by the LEA that your child/children can have a school meal free of charge. Each school makes its own arrangements for notifying the dinner service staff about who is to receive a school meal free of charge.
What if my circumstances change?
You should notify the school and contact us directly of any changes:
- If you start work and come off benefit
- If you change address
- If your child changes school
- If your child moves address, and is no longer living with you
Pay online
Parents who pay for school meals can do so via our online payment system. Follow the link and select School Meals from the drop-down menu under 'Other payments'.
Contact details
School Benefits and TransportED 37, New Council Offices
Earl Street
Coventry
CV1 5RS
e-mail: karen.tonks@coventry.gov.uk
Office: 024 7683 1552
Office: 024 7683 1555
Fax: 024 7683 1627
Downloadable documents
Get in touch
Contact us quickly and easily using our online contact form.
