Free School Meals Assistance

As the Cost of Living Crisis continues and winter sets in, we would like to remind you about the availability of Free School Meals on Humanitarian Grounds.

The process for seeking free school meals for children whose circumstances do not fit the usual criteria but who are identified within school as being in need is via  application to the EA Free School Meals and Uniform Service (FSMU). This  can be made by any member of the school staff Safeguarding Team – myself Mrs Harbinson, Mrs Hutchinson, Mrs Turtle, Mr Graham or Mr Gray -  or by any of the following people: our Educational Welfare Officer or a key worker from the Red Cross or Barnardos, a social worker or a health worker.

There is no specific application form for this – an application can be made by contacting FSMU on 02890 418044 (Mon – Friday 9.00-4.30) or by emailing mealsanduniform@eani.org.uk.

The child/ren details of name, DOB, address and school should be provided – along with the referrer’s name and role – clearly stating that the child/ren are in need of free school meals. FSMU will review with the referrer after 3 months.

The Children and Young Peoples’ Strategic Partnership (CYPSP) has put together a guide to locality based targeted resources and practical support for families and children struggling with the cost of living crisis. It will be updated on a regular basis and we will ensure that we forward it on receipt. The guide is attached. The CYPSP has also updated its resource pack for children and young people and is also attached.

The Family Support Hubs Newlsetter also focuses on the cost of living crisis and can be accessed via this link: https://cypsp.hscni.net/family-support-hub-newsletter-october-2022/