Free school meals (eFSM) and Universal Primary Free School Meals (UPFSM)

Understanding the difference.

Free School Meals (eFSM) -

Some families who meet certain criteria, for example those on lower incomes or in receipt of certain benefits, are entitled to receive a free school meal (eFSM). 

On a successful application for eFSM families are then eligible for other benefits to cover the cost of school essentials such as school essentials grants (PDG).

Even though the roll out of UPFSM has begun, families who are eligible for eFSM should continue to use the eFSM application process to ensure they don't lose out on other benefits.

What is Free School Meals (eFSM) Policy?

Free school meals (eFSM) will be provided for pupils whose parents receive:

  - Income Support,

  - Income Based Jobseekers Allowance,

  - Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999,

  - Income-related Employment and Support Allowance,

  - Child Tax Credit, provided they are not entitled to Working Tax Credit and their annual income does not exceed £16,190,

  - Guarantee element of State Pension Credit,

  - Working Tax Credit 'run-on' - the payment someone may receive for a further four weeks after they stop qualifying for   - Working Tax Credit or Universal Credit.

  - Universal credit(If earned income is included in the assessment of UC it must be less than £616.66).

How do I apply for eFSM?

You must complete an online form to apply to free school meals (eFSM). Please click here to complete.

Universal Primary Free School Meals (UPFSM) - It is Welsh Government’s aim that every child in primary school in Wales will be eligible for a universal primary free school meal (UPFSM) by 2024, regardless of household income. There will be no forms to fill in. Receiving a UPFSM in this way does not automatically entitle families to receive other benefits such as school essentials grants.  For more information on UPFSM click here