AQW 27881/17-22

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 12/01/2022
Answered On Date: 25/02/2022
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education to outline (i) what consideration she has given to providing universally free, nutritious school meals; and (ii) for her assessment of the potential impact on (a) children’s health, and (b) working families in poverty who only just exceed the current threshold for free school meals.

Answer:

The Department has commenced its Review of Free School Meals and Uniform Grant eligibility criteria. The purpose of the review is to ensure that free school meals and uniform grants are available to support the most vulnerable children in our society, including working families in poverty. The review will also consider options for universal free school meal provision for certain year groups or all pupils.

The Department met with key stakeholders in December 2021 and the above issues were highlighted. The Review is due to conclude in summer 2023.