A significant majority of the UK public supports the extension of free school meals to children in households receiving Universal Credit.
- Family food poverty rates have doubled within a year, affecting 21.6% of households with children compared to 11.6% the previous year.
- YouGov poll data shows 80% public approval for extending free school meals, a rise from 72% last year.
- The backing for this policy is particularly strong in key marginal constituencies, impacting future political stakes.
- Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are ahead in implementing broader school meal programmes compared to England.
In a time of increasing economic hardship, a significant number of UK residents are advocating for the extension of free school meals to children from families on Universal Credit. A YouGov poll commissioned by The Food Foundation indicates that 80% of the public supports this initiative, marking an increase from 72% the previous year. This data reflects a nationwide concern about child food insecurity, with 21.6% of households with children reporting food insecurity in January 2023, a substantial rise from 11.6% during the same period the previous year.
The cost of living crisis has exacerbated challenges for families, preventing access to essential nutritious food for children. The growing public support indicates a demand for government intervention to address these gaps in the social safety net. Anna Taylor, Executive Director of The Food Foundation, highlighted these concerns, stating, ‘We have been tracking these trends for some time, the levels of food insecurity among children continue to be terribly concerning, and point to big holes in the Government’s safety net.’
This sentiment is not only a matter of public opinion but also a political consideration. The policy of extending free school meals is particularly popular in marginal seats currently held by senior government figures such as the Prime Minister, Jeremy Hunt, and others. The political implications are significant, as these areas may influence the outcomes of future elections.
Contrastingly, England trails behind its devolved counterparts on this issue. Scotland and Wales have initiated universal free school meals in primary schools, while Northern Ireland has established a higher income threshold for Universal Credit eligibility compared to England. According to Anna Taylor, implementing similar changes in England in the upcoming budget could be a timely and politically advantageous move. ‘By extending Free School Meals to more children in England in the next budget, the Government could deliver a policy change that is popular with voters, targeted and timely, and truly delivers on levelling up,’ Taylor added.
Amid these discussions, the Labour Mayor of London has committed to funding free school meals for all primary school children in the capital, starting from September 2023. These moves form part of a broader campaign by The Food Foundation to ‘Feed the Future’ and ensure that all children have access to necessary nutrition.
The call to extend free school meals is supported by a growing public mandate and presents both social and political opportunities for UK policymakers.
