Currently all eligible families are encouraged to apply for free school meals at the beginning of each school year. There is concern that some of those entitled to the service miss out, with national figures showing that one in ten eligible pupils across England are not registered.
Over 40% of Newcastle’s schoolchildren (more than 18,000 pupils) are already entitled to free school meals. Due to auto-enrolment, schools in the city will benefit from extra funding too.
Councillor Lesley Storey, cabinet member for children and families at Newcastle City Council, said: “It is a priority for us to ensure that every eligible child is registered for free school meals. It is crucial to the health and wellbeing of the city, so all our children and young people can maximise their potential.
“By introducing auto-enrolment, we are taking a proactive approach to support families most in need and secure additional funding for our schools. We look forward to confirming the timeline in the New Year and working with parents, carers, schools, and partners to make this a reality.”