Disparity between FSM eligibility and usage shown

A growing number of UK children are now eligible for Free School Meals (FSM), yet most are not taking advantage of them on a daily basis, new research reveals. 

The 2025 School Meals Report by the ParentPay Group in partnership with LACA – The School Food People, shows that 71% of FSM-entitled pupils are not accessing their free meals every school day.
 
Based on responses from over 236,000 parents, the report highlights a growing disparity between eligibility and usage. FSM entitlement rose sharply from 23% in 2024 to 37% in 2025, driven by cost-of-living pressures, demographic shifts, and improved identification processes.
 
Despite this, the data reveals that only 29% of eligible children are using FSMs 4-5 times per week. Around one in 10 entitled children are not registered at all – often due to stigma, confusion, or language barriers.

What's more, whilst 55% of UK schools offer breakfast provision, a third (33%) of parents said their child doesn’t attend, even when the service is available.
 
The case for school meals is clear. According to a further survey by ParentPay Group, 86% of school leaders believe nutritious school meals are not just a welfare issue, but a lever for improving rankings and long-term outcomes. In addition, nearly two-thirds (61%) say that pupils eating nutritious school meals are more ready to learn, while 58% say behaviour improves when children eat well. These findings reinforce the broader value of FSM beyond hunger relief, pointing to clear academic and social dividends.
 
“No child should miss out on a hot meal simply because their parent didn’t receive a form or felt embarrassed to apply,” said Phil Roberts, Group Chief Growth Officer at ParentPay Group.

“We’re working closely with schools and caterers to simplify the process – from automated opt-out registration and stigma-free messaging that normalises FSM use, to providing easy-to-use digital tools that help families track eligibility and bookings. These small steps are practical, proven and could make a life-changing difference to thousands of children.”
 
Among families who are accessing FSMs, satisfaction remains strong. Half of eligible parents gave FSMs a 5-star rating for improving quality of life, with an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5. Parents see them as vital for nutrition, wellbeing, and cost savings – but the barriers to access must be removed.
 
“Expanding FSM eligibility is a critical step, especially during a cost-of-living crisis,” said Michael Hales, Chair of LACA. “But for these policies to truly benefit families, the school meal service must be properly funded (at least £3.45 per meal, index-linked) and assessable, through auto-enrolment in every local authority, so that all children can access their free school meal without delay,” he added.