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<p>The government recognises the benefits of providing a healthy school meal to the
most disadvantaged children. Children in England who receive, or whose parents receive,
specified benefits[1] are entitled to receive free school meals. Free meals were also
extended to disadvantaged students in further education institutions from September
2014.</p><p>Since 1 September 2014, state-funded schools in England have been required
by law to provide free lunches to all pupils in reception, year one or year two.</p><p>The
provision of universal infant free school meals was a commitment in the Conservative
Party Manifesto.</p><p>[1] Income Support (IS); Income Based Jobseekers Allowance
(IBJSA); an income-related employment and support allowance; support under part VI
of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999; Child Tax Credit (provided they are not entitled
to Working Tax Credit) with an annual income, as assessed by Her Majesty's Revenue
and Customs (HMRC), that does not exceed £16,190; the guarantee element of State Pension
Credit; or Universal Credit. Where a parent is entitled to Working Tax Credit run-on
- the payment someone receives for a further four weeks after they stop qualifying
for Working Tax Credit -their children are entitled to free school meals.</p>
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