Free School Meals/School Uniform

Free School Meals/School Uniform/Physical Education Clothing Allowance 2020-21

The Education Authority (EA) has been continuing to process applications for Free School Meals / Uniform Grants / Physical Education Clothing allowances throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. With the new academic year approaching we want to provide an update on 2020/21 applications.

Current Eligible Families

Parents/guardians who are currently in receipt of support for the 2019/20 school year will receive a pre-populated application form from EA, which they are required to complete and return as soon as possible to help avoid any delays. Forms to begin arriving week commencing 6 July 2020.

New Applicants

This year we have also introduced a new online application form for new applicants. Parents/guardians will be required to complete the form and upload supporting documentation to verify they are in receipt of one of the qualifying benefits. Both the paper based form and online form are accessible from the EA website – https://www.eani.org.uk/financial-help/free-school-meals

Applicants can also request an application form from the Meals and Uniform Section (contact details below).

Parents/Guardians whose child has a Statement of Special Educational Needs (Stage 5) and requires a special diet should contact the Meals and Uniform Section if they wish to apply under the special diet criteria.

It is important that a school should not give free school meals to any pupil until the Education Authority issues authorisation.