Free School Meals: Homeschooling and Holidays
Schools must provide some pupils with a free midday meal during term times. For more information who is eligible, see Free School Meals
What is available when the schools are shut because of the coronavirus pandemic and in school holidays depends on the country of the UK that you live in.
England
Families in England who are entitled to free school meals should be able to access schemes in their area when schools are shut and during school holidays. Contact your local council to find out what help they are providing.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has a direct payments scheme for families eligible for free school meals when there are school closures in term time and during school holidays..
Scotland
If you get free school meals, you may also be able to get help when homeschooling and the school holidays.
See Mygov.scot: School meals for more information
Wales
While schools are closed because of coronavirus and during the school holidays, families eligible for free school means are given vouchers or food packages by local councils in Wales.
Other sources of food help
If you need help with food in general, see I don't have enough to eat
For other kinds of urgent needs, see Emergency help information
For general help, see Bringing up a Child and Coronavirus Help
The End Child Food Poverty website includes a map that allows people to find help in their local area. This is a new website so the information on it is likely to grow over time and the information may be subject to change.