Hounslow says you apply online for free school meals, but there are a couple of important exceptions. Primary school children at a state school in Hounslow get free school meals automatically through the Mayor of London’s programme, so there’s nothing to apply for there.
| Situation | What Hounslow says to do |
|---|---|
| Primary school child at a state school in Hounslow | No application needed; meals are automatic |
| Child attends Springwest Academy or Reach Academy | Apply to the school directly |
| Child attends a free school or independent school, including in Hounslow, Richmond or Hillingdon | Apply to the school directly |
| Eligible child needing additional support / benefits-related free school meals | Apply for free school meals or additional support online |
When you apply, you’ll need your name and address, your child’s name, date of birth and school, plus your National Insurance number or National Asylum Support Service number. Hounslow also says you must complete the application in a single visit because you can’t save and return later. Use the council’s apply for free school meals or additional support page, and for eligibility or application queries you can email school.meals@hounslow.gov.uk.