27 September 2018

Image of Free School Meals and Clothing Vouchers

The list below outlines the criteria for additional support that you can apply for through Cumbria County Council. This is a link to the web page if you require further information of would like to apply. 

Free school meals and clothing vouchers are available for your child(ren) if you are receiving one of the following qualifying benefits:

  • Income Support (IS);

  • Income Based Jobseekers Allowance (IBJSA);

  • An income-related Employment and Support Allowance;

  • Support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999;

  • Child Tax Credit, provided you are not entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual income (as assessed by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs) that as of April 2012 does not exceed £ 16,190. Note: From 1st May 2009 where you are entitled to Working Tax Credit during the four-week period immediately after your employment ceases, or after you start to work less than 16 hours per week, your children are entitled to Free School Meals, this may be extended.

  • The Guarantee element of State Pension Credit;

  • Universal Credit

Please note: If you are in receipt of working tax credits you may not be eligible for free school meals or clothing grants.

Children who receive Income Support or Income Based Jobseekers Allowance in their own right are also entitled to receive Free School Meals.

Free schools meals are available to statutory school aged children attending full time education (full days only e.g. 9.00am to 3.00pm), excluding private nurseries and further education colleges.