Free School Meals and Child Poverty

Opened the debate

Kim Johnson of Liverpool Riverside raised the urgent need for universal free school meals to tackle child poverty exacerbated by the cost-of-living crisis. She highlighted the rising number of children eligible for free meals, now nearly a quarter, and stressed that current policies are failing to address inequalities in educational attainment between poorer pupils and their more affluent peers. Johnson cited examples such as Liverpool Riverside where 11 out of every 30 students were living in poverty pre-crisis. She emphasised the long-term impacts on children's health, mental wellbeing, and opportunities due to food insecurity, urging immediate action from the government.

Government Response

Kelly Tolhurst, newly appointed Minister of State for Children and Families, acknowledged the rising cost-of-living crisis affecting all constituents. She outlined existing Government support measures including free school meals eligibility criteria, increasing core funding for schools by £2.5 billion, and additional funds for holiday activities and food programmes. The Minister emphasised her commitment to reviewing free school meal eligibility but did not commit to universal provision due to the significant financial cost. Tolhurst also highlighted the new energy price guarantee and support for businesses as measures to address rising costs, stressing that employment offers the best chance of reducing poverty risks.