Northumberland County Council is working to ensure that all eligible pupils receive Free School Meals (FSM) and that schools receive the funding they’re entitled to.
It’s estimated that up to 1,000 pupils in Northumberland may be missing out on FSM that they are entitled to, which is why the Council will be contacting families we believe to be eligible over the summer holidays.
Where existing data suggests a household may be eligible, an FSM eligibility check will be carried out by Northumberland County Council. If a household is deemed eligible, they will receive a letter. This letter will give parents/carers the opportunity to object to their child/children being enrolled for Free School Meals being applied.
If no objection is received, free school meals will be awarded to ensure eligible children receive the support they are entitled to.
Who is included?
Children from Reception to Year 11 (as of September 2025) who were on roll in the May 2025 School Census.
This includes children in Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 who may currently receive Universal Infant Free School Meals — but if no FSM eligibility check has been completed, your school could be missing out on vital funding. This is because claiming FSM also triggers Pupil Premium funding which is vital additional funding support direct to schools – as well as other benefits to eligible pupils such as through the Holiday Activities Fund, and to schools.
What do parents/carers need to do?
- No action is needed at this stage.
- If their child is identified as potentially eligible, parents/carers will receive a letter from Northumberland County Council.
- If eligible, the Council will write to families giving the option to object to FSM being applied.
- If they do not object, the FSM will be awarded
This initiative not only supports families who are entitled to help, but also ensures your school receives the funding it needs to support all pupils.
Further information on Free School Meals is available on the Council website at:
https://www.northumberland.gov.uk/Education/Schools/Meals.aspx
or by contacting FSMCampaign@northumberland.gov.uk
