![](/_site/data/images/news/338/main-freeschoolmealspadding.jpg)
As we fast approach Christmas we appreciate that for some families household income may be an issue. At Reddish Vale we want to ensure that all our parents and carers are aware of the availability of Free School Meals to those who are eligible.
Free school meals eligibility
Pupils at the school can receive free school meals up to the value of £2.25 per day if you receive one of these qualifying incomes:
- Income Support
- income-based Jobseekers Allowance
- income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Universal Credit (provided your earned income is no more than £616.67 in the last Universal Credit assessment period)
- support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- the guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
- Child Tax Credit (provided you are not entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190)
- Working Tax Credit run-on paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit
What difference does applying for Free School Meals make?
Reddish Vale want to ensure all our families receive the support they are entitled to. Being eligible for Free School Meals will ensure your child receives a meal every day whilst in school.
Reddish Vale also receives additional funding for every eligible pupil who is registered for free school meals. Pupil premium funding from the government is given to schools to help pupils reach their full potential, regardless of their background or financial situation.
If you don’t wish for your child to have school meals that is fine – you can still register for Free School Meals and this will mean Reddish Vale will still receive the additional funding to support our pupils.
To apply for free school meals apply online at https://www.stockport.gov.uk/start/free-school-meals-application-form. You will need your National Insurance Number and if you are on Universal Credit your most recent Universal Credit award letter.
If you have a query about free school meals you can email benefitsfsm@stockport.gov.uk.
Uniform Grant - If pupils receive free school meals you may also be eligible for a £40 uniform grant to spend at FR Monkhouses. Apply online at https://www.stockport.gov.uk/clothing-grants/apply-school-school-clothing-scheme
If you require any further information or support regarding an application for Free School Meals please contact school on admin@reddish.stockport.sch.uk