Do you qualify for free school meals and clothing grants?
Families on low incomes in Midlothian are being reminded that they could qualify for free school meals and money to help towards buying school clothes. Young people over the age of 16 staying on at school and living on their own can also apply.
All primary 1 to 5 already qualify
All children in primary 1 to 5 – including Emma, Oliver, Lennon, Clodagh and Georgia from Gore Glen in the picture - already receive free school meals. All children in early learning and childcare can get a free meal (either breakfast, lunch or dinner) on the days they go.
Are you on certain benefits or credits?
However, if your child is in Primary 6 or 7, they can also get free lunches in school if you receive or are waiting for certain benefits. You also qualify if you get Child Tax Credit (not Working Tax Credit) and your income is less than £18,725; or both Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit and have an income of up to £ £8,717.
School Clothing Grants
You may also be able to get money to help with your child's school clothing and shoes. School Clothing Grants are £120 for primary pupils and £150 for secondary pupils.
Did you get an award previously?
If you got an award for the previous school year, and you are on certain benefits, you should get a letter by mid-July telling you that you will receive your free school meal or clothing grant automatically.
Other families need to apply
However, families who did not automatically receive an award can apply for one. Each award is valid for one year only and you need to complete an application every year.
Do you qualify?
Find out if you qualify on the Scottish Government website
Some people not aware they must register
“Many families may not be aware they need to register after Primary 5 to get the free school meals they may be entitled to,” said Midlothian Council Leader, Councillor Kelly Parry. “As part of our #MidlothianCares initiative, aimed at helping local people through the cost of living crisis, we’re reminding people of this and the other benefits and support that is available to them.”
Apply now
In the picture
In the picture are pupils from Gore Glen Primary, which has one of the highest uptakes of school meals in Midlothian. Pictured at the back from left to right are Emma, 7, who is in P3 and eight-year-old Oliver, who is in P4. At the front are Georgia, 10, who is in P5, then next to her is Clodagh, 7, from P3 and Lennon, 9, from P4.