New research shows that Universal Primary Free School Meals (UPFSM) have removed financial barriers, increased access to school meals and reduced stigma.

Introduced in 2022 in response to the cost-of-living crisis, UPFSM aimed to ensure every primary-aged learner could access a free school meal, while also improving nutrition, reducing health inequalities and enhancing educational attainment.

An evaluation of the policy found that financial pressures had eased for many families, particularly those previously just above the free school meals threshold, who no longer need to budget for school meals or packed lunches.

Across North Wales the policy is already having a significant impact. Since the rollout began in 2022, an estimated 2.4 million Universal Primary Free School Meals have been served in Flintshire and around 1.57 million in Denbighshire.

This means thousands of local pupils are receiving a nutritious meal every school day, helping families manage household budgets while ensuring children arrive in the classroom ready to learn and concentrate.

For many families, particularly during the ongoing cost-of-living pressures, the scheme is providing valuable financial support while helping to improve wellbeing and educational outcomes for learners across both counties.

Hannah Blythyn MS said:

“Universal Primary Free School Meals are a key part of our efforts in Wales to tackle child poverty and support families through the cost-of-living crisis. Making sure every child has access to a healthy meal during the school day helps remove stigma, supports learning and gives children the best possible start.

“I’m really pleased to see the positive difference this policy is already making for families and schools, and it’s important that we continue to build on that progress so every learner has the opportunity to thrive.”

Schools have welcomed UPFSM for reducing stigma around free school meals, as removing visible differences between learners has created a more inclusive environment. Several schools also reported that learners who had previously arrived at school hungry were now able to receive at least one hot meal a day.

All maintained schools must follow the Healthy Eating Regulations when designing their menus, meaning more learners are exposed to balanced meals and a wider range of food options, encouraging healthier choices.

New regulations for nursery and primary learners, will further support access to healthier, balanced choices, ensuring closer alignment with latest nutritional guidance. This will come into force for maintained nursery and primary schools on 31 October 2026.

In addition, to reflect the priority places on delivering the UPFSM offer, in December the rate paid per meal was increased from £3.20 to £3.40.

Cabinet Secretary for Education, Lynne Neagle said:

"Universal Primary Free School Meals are making a real difference to families, schools and learners right across Wales. This evaluation shows we are not only easing financial pressures on households but also creating more inclusive school environments where every child can enjoy a nutritious meal together.

“Ensuring children are well-fed supports their ability to learn and thrive, and I'm pleased that our continued investment in this policy means we are building on these positive early findings to deliver even better outcomes for our learners."