From published council information, in Ards and North Down, children are eligible for free school meals if they meet certain criteria. The main eligibility criteria include:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Income Support | Must be in receipt of Income Support. |
| Universal Credit | Must earn less than a specific threshold. |
| Jobseeker’s Allowance | Must be in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance. |
| Child Tax Credit | Must be in receipt of Child Tax Credit and not receiving Working Tax Credit. |
| Employment and Support Allowance | Must be in receipt of Employment and Support Allowance. |
| Support from the Armed Forces | Children whose parents have support from the Armed Forces can also be eligible. |
If you believe you qualify under these criteria, it would be a good idea to check with the council directly or visit their website for more specifics on the application process.