A new report highlights how the rollout of free school meals in London’s primary schools is improving the health and wellbeing of families across the capital.
Positive Impact on Household Budgets
The report reveals that 84% of parents believe the initiative has either helped or significantly improved their household budgets. Families with low incomes are benefiting the most. A third of parents (33%) also reported a reduction in their debt, while one in three said their children are now able to concentrate better in class.
Mayor Sadiq Khan’s Policy Success
In 2023, Mayor Sadiq Khan introduced the policy of free hot dinners for all primary school children in London, making it permanent thereafter. This initiative has received strong support from teachers, charities, and top chefs. Khan has praised the impact of this policy, calling it one of his proudest achievements as Mayor.
He said, “I’m delighted that our funding to provide free school meals for all state primary school children in London is having such a positive impact. It’s supporting families struggling with the cost of living, improving children’s health and wellbeing, and benefiting school communities. That’s why I’ve decided to make free school meals permanent in London for as long as I am Mayor.”
Benefits for Families and Children
Nikita Sinclair from Impact on Urban Health, the charity behind the report, explained that the policy is already making a real difference. “Universal primary free school meals in London are benefiting family finances and children’s health, wellbeing, and school experiences by providing access to nutritious food,” she said.
Sinclair also noted that while the benefits are widespread, families on low incomes are seeing the most positive outcomes. However, the report calls for further action to ensure that every child, especially the most marginalised, can fully benefit from the policy.
Calls for Further Action
The report also highlighted the need for government action to overcome barriers and ensure that school meals meet the needs of all children. Sinclair added, “We need committed action from government to make free school meals accessible and consistent for every child.”
Labour’s Stance on School Meals
While the report’s findings show broad support for the policy, Labour has rejected calls for universal free school meals. Instead, the party is focusing on rolling out free breakfast clubs in primary schools across the country.
A spokesperson for the Department for Education commented, “This government is determined to give every child the best start in life. Our plans to introduce free breakfast clubs will ensure children are ready to learn and improve behaviour, attendance, and attainment.”
They also reiterated that free school meals for disadvantaged children will continue, with the approach under ongoing review.
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