October 29, 2026 - 194 views
More secondary school pupils in Conwy will be eligible for free school meals from next month, as the Welsh Government expands the scheme to support families claiming Universal Credit.
Conwy County Borough Council is now accepting applications for the expanded offer, which will initially cover eligible children in Years 7 and 8, with no household income limit for those claiming Universal Credit.
The first eligible pupils are due to start receiving free school meals from Monday, 2 November.
Parents and carers who have already received confirmation that their child qualifies do not need to do anything further.
However, families who believe their child may be eligible but have not received confirmation are being urged to apply through the council’s website at www.conwy.gov.uk/expandedfreeschoolmeals, or contact the Benefit Team on 01492 576491.
The expansion forms part of the Welsh Government’s wider commitment to extending free school meals to more children, helping families manage the cost of living and ensuring pupils can access a meal during the school day.
Similar arrangements may be available to eligible families in other North Wales counties as the expanded offer is rolled out. Parents and carers are encouraged to contact their own local authority to find out what support is available in their area, including eligibility criteria and how to apply.
Families are also being urged to check they are receiving all the welfare benefits they are entitled to. Conwy County Borough Council’s Welfare Rights team offers free benefits checks to help residents identify support they may be able to claim. Details are available at www.conwy.gov.uk/welfarerights.
There is more to hear about free school meals on Bayside Radio throughout the week, with further coverage looking at the support available to local families and what the changes could mean for parents and pupils across the area.
For now, Conwy’s expanded offer applies to eligible pupils in Years 7 and 8 only.
