Europe, UK (Commonwealth Union) – Free meal programs in schools represent a critical investment in the future of children and society. By addressing food insecurity, enhancing academic performance, and promoting long-term health, these programs provide invaluable support to students and their families.
The Welsh government has stated that by September 2024, all primary school children and over 6,000 nursery-age pupils attending a maintained school in Wales will be eligible for free meals.
However, new data reveals that 19 out of Wales’ 22 local authorities are already providing free meals to all eligible pupils, surpassing the target prior to the scheduled month.
The Welsh Government committed £260 million to implement universal free school meals, with £60 million allocated to improve school kitchen facilities, including purchasing equipment and bringing digital systems up to date.
First Minister Vaughan Gething stated that universal free school meals for primary-age pupils have been transformational, helping families save much-needed money during these challenging times.
“Within my priorities for government, I committed to making sure we do everything we can to see young people grow up feeling happy and hopeful for the future.”
“At the heart of our mission is to lift children out of poverty, especially when the cost-of-living crisis has put extraordinary pressure on families across Wales.”
The introduction of universal free school meals for primary school pupils is a key component of the Co-operation Agreement between the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru, which is another Welsh political party.
Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth stated that providing universal free school meals in all primary schools is significantly improving the lives of thousands of children and assisting families across Wales, particularly during the current cost-of-living crisis.
He further indicated that through the Co-operation Agreement, we have ensured that no child goes hungry by collaborating on shared goals, meeting the expectations of the people of Wales.
