IMPORTANT UPDATE:
Changes to Free School Meal (FSM) Eligibility for 2026-27 Academic Year

We are writing to inform you about important national changes to Free School Meal (FSM) eligibility that will come into effect from the start of 2026/27 academic year.

Under new guidance introduced by the Department for Education, the eligibility criteria for FSMs are being significantly expanded.

What is changing?

From September 2026, all children from households receiving Universal Credit will be entitled to receive FSM, removing the previous household earnings cap. Due to this expansion, the government is introducing two categories of FSM:

Targeted FSM: This covers families receiving Universal Credit with an annual household income of £7400 or less. Pupils in this category will also attract additional funding for the school (Pupil Premium).
Expanded FSM: This is a new category for all other families receiving Universal Credit who have earnings exceeding £7400 per year. Children in this category will receive a free school meal but will not attract Pupil Premium Funding.

Important Action Required: End of Transitional Protection

The government is also ending the transitional protections that have been in place since April 2018. This means that all families, including those currently receiving FSM, must reapply to continue their entitlement under the new rules. If you do not submit a new application, your child’s entitlement will lapse at the end of the current academic year.

How to apply:

We strongly encourage all families receiving Universal Credit to apply, regardless of your household income and even if you are unsure whether you qualify. Even if your child prefers to bring a packed lunch, confirming your eligibility could unlock vital Pupil Premium funding for Meadow High School.

How to check: Visit the national LGfL FSM Eligibility Checker: https://fsm.lgfl.net/
What you need: You only need to enter your name date of birth, and National Insurance (or NASS) number.
The process: The system links securely to the Department for Education and provides an instant decision. If eligible, please notify the school immediately by emailing attendance@meadowhighschool.org

If you need any assistance filling out these online forms, accessing the internet or verifying your details, please do not hesitate to contact me via calling the school office or emailing: attendance@meadowhighschool.org

Free Holiday Clubs: The Hillingdon HAF Programme

If your child is eligible for benefits-related FSM, they qualify for free places in the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme. This scheme runs during the Easter, Summer, and Winter holidays. It provides specialised activities and creative sessions every day.

SEND Accommodations: The Hillingdon HAF network includes dedicated programs specifically designed for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
How to book: Hillingdon Council uses a booking platform called Eequ. You can browse available activities and register your interest directly on the Hillingdon HAF Eequ Platform: https://eequ.org/hillingdonhaf
Note for the Summer: Bookings for this upcoming summer holiday open on Monday 29th June at 10am. Eligible children can book up to 20 free sessions across the summer.

Broad Financial Help: Household Support & Crisis Grants

Nationally, the funding for universal voucher schemes has ended, and support is now much more targeted. Instead of receiving automatic vouchers, families can access support through Household Support & Crisis Grants.

Household Support Fund: This fund is open to Hillingdon residents who have not received support from the scheme in the past 12 months. It provides support through a voucher system (no cash awards) to help with emergency expenses. You can review full requirements and apply online via the Hillingdon Council Household Support Fund page: https://www.hillingdon.gov.uk/household-support-fund
Crisis and Resilience Grant: If you face an immediate financial crisis, you can apply for daily living assistance or help with essential utility bills. Details and the mandatory income and expenditure forms can be accessed on the Hillingdon Crisis and Resilience Grant directory: https://pre.hillingdon.gov.uk/support-cost-living/crisis-resilience-grant

Please take 5 minutes today to complete the LGfL online check. Please note that even if your child currently receives Free School Meals, you must still complete this reapplication to ensure their funding continues uninterrupted. We encourage every family to check, even if you think you might not qualify, as every approved application directly increases out school budget. This allows us to invest more into specialized resources for your children. If you require any assistance, please get in touch so that we can assist you.