Automatic Enrollment for Free School Meals Advocated Following Successful Pilot

A councillor has stated that the automatic enrollment of eligible children for free school meals ought to become standard procedure, following a successful pilot program. This initiative, managed by the Fix Our Food research programme in collaboration with local councils, successfully identified and automatically registered children who were eligible but not previously signed up. Consequently, since the pilot’s launch in September, an additional 2,500 children in County Durham have begun to receive free school meals. School head teachers described the program as “the way forward,” noting its benefits for students and their families. Durham County Councillor Alan Shield commented that the trial had proven “so successful” that there was an expectation for it to be adopted as “standard practice.” Shield, who serves as the local authority’s cabinet member for equality and inclusion, indicated that the council was collaborating with other local authorities that were “following [Durham’s] lead.” He specified that over 1,500 primary school students and slightly fewer than 1,000 secondary school students were enrolled during the pilot phase. A three-week period was provided for families to opt out, with only 16 families choosing to decline the offer. Redcar and Cleveland Council, along with Middlesbrough Council, also participated in the trial. Head teachers reported that the initiative reduced burdens not only on families but also on school personnel, who were no longer required to refer families for eligibility checks. Joanne Bromley, head teacher at King Street Primary School in Spennymoor, observed that children who are well-nourished demonstrate improved concentration. She stated, “It’s an opportunity for them to make sure that they’ve eaten something quite wholesome.” Natalie Maughan, head teacher at Bowburn Primary School, noted that the program additionally assisted families who faced difficulties with administrative tasks or the “stigma” associated with free meals. “I think that is the way forward for our families,” Mrs Maughan remarked, further explaining, “There could be some stigma attached to [free school meals].” She added, “Parents might not want to fill in the form or they might not feel that they’re eligible.” According to Durham County Council, enrolling for a free meal results in an average annual saving of £400 per child for families. Furthermore, it generates additional funding for schools via the government’s pupil premium grant. Shield stated that the trial is currently undergoing evaluation and is anticipated to be expanded to support more families. He commented, “It will be hopefully established as standard practice,” and added, “We will potentially look at other households who could be entitled to free school meals for their children.” Details for following BBC North East are provided across platforms including X, Facebook, Nextdoor, and Instagram. Submissions for story ideas can be sent to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk. This content is Copyright 2024 BBC, with all rights reserved. The BBC clarifies that it is not accountable for the content found on external sites, and information on its external linking policy is available.