Eligibility for free school meals in Scottish Borders depends on specific income criteria. Here's a quick breakdown of the qualification requirements:
| Criteria | Eligible for Free School Meals |
|---|---|
| P1-P5 | All children automatically receive meals; apply if you meet income criteria |
| P6-S6 | Must meet one of the following: |
| Income Support | Yes |
| Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance | Yes |
| Any income-related element of Employment and Support Allowance | Yes |
| Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 | Yes |
| Universal Credit (earnings not exceeding £995 per month) | Yes |
| Pension Credit | Yes |
| If you have a child in P6 or P7 and receive the Scottish Child Payment | Yes |
If you think you might qualify, it’s a good idea to apply even if your child is in P1-P5, as further support may be available during school holidays. You can find the application form and further details on the Scottish Borders council website. You can apply for free school meals online.