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<p>Approximately 1.9 million pupils are claiming free school meals (FSM). This equates
to 22.5% of all pupils, up from 20.8% in 2021. Together with a further 1.25 million
infants supported through the Universal Infant Free School Meal policy, over one third
of school pupils are now provided with FSM. The latest published statistics from the
Department are available at: <a href="https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/find-statistics/school-pupils-and-their-characteristics"
target="_blank">https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/find-statistics/school-pupils-and-their-characteristics</a>.</p><p>The
Department believes that the current eligibility threshold level, which enables children
in low income households to benefit from FSM, while remaining affordable and deliverable
for schools, is the right one. The Department does not have plans to change the current
eligibility conditions for FSM but will continue to keep eligibility under review
to ensure that these meals are supporting those who most need them. The Department
continues to monitor the consequences of the rising cost of living and is working
with other Government Departments to provide support to disadvantaged families.</p><p>The
Government is committed to continuing support for school breakfasts. In November 2022
the National School Breakfast Programme was extended for an additional year, until
the end of the 2024 summer term. The Department is providing up to £30 million for
this programme. This funding will support up to 2,500 schools in disadvantaged areas,
meaning that thousands of pupils from low income families will be offered free nutritious
breakfasts to better support their attainment and wellbeing. Schools are eligible
for the programme if they have 40% or more pupils from disadvantaged households, as
measured by the Income Deprivation Affecting Children Index.</p>
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