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Support with domestic abuse

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, help is available. Major sporting events can be a difficult time for some people. If you are worried about your own safety, or that of someone you know, confidential support and advice are available on our domestic abuse page.

Guidance notes for free school meals application form

If your child is in nursery

All children who attend a local authority maintained nursery and receive education before and after lunch are entitled to free school meals if the eligible criteria below is met.

If your child is in Reception, Year 1 or Year 2

All children in the above school years are entitled to free school dinners and to ensure efficient administration of these meals at school, all parents are required to complete this application and return to the school as soon as possible. Once this application has been completed and returned, you do not need to take any further action.

If your child is in Year 3 or above

  • Free school meals can only be awarded if you or your partner is in receipt of one of the following qualifying benefits:
    • Universal Credit
    • Pension guarantee credit
    • Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
  • Free school meals will only be awarded on receipt of a completed, approved application form and will commence from that date. Please note - applications cannot be backdated
  • You only need to complete one application form for all your children, even if they attend different schools within Herefordshire Council's jurisdiction
  • Applications can only be made for children attending a school within Herefordshire local authority. If your child or children attend a school in a different authority, your application for free school meals should be made to that authority, even if you reside within Herefordshire
  • It is important that you notify us immediately of any changes to your circumstances as this could affect your entitlement to free school meals

Apply online for free school meals

Download a free school meals application form

If you download and complete a form, please send your completed application to one of the following:

This document is available in a variety of other formats if required. If you have any questions or require assistance in completing this form, please contact us on 01432 260333. Phone lines are open: Monday, Thursday and Friday 10am to 4pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 1pm to 4pm.