BMJ public health
Do children in food-insecure households in England access free school meals? A cross-sectional analysis of the UK Family Resources Survey
By Arnold R, Taylor-Robinson D, Hargreaves D and 1 others.
Abstract
Introduction
Food insecurity affects over one in four UK children. Free school meals (FSMs) may mitigate some adverse effects yet how well they reach food-insecure children is unclear. In September 2026, eligibility criteria will be changed but provision will not be universal. This study provides an analysis of FSM reach among food-insecure children and the potential impact of the 2026 eligibility changes.
