2022: Blog – New research shows support for universal free school meals in England

A new poll reveals huge public support for universal free school meals in primary schools in response to the cost-of-living crisis.

New public polling to mark International School Meals Day reveals the majority of UK adults would like all primary school children to receive free school meals, as one way the Government could support families to cope with rising costs of living.

With costs of food and fuel both rising sharply, and amidst rising levels of childhood obesity prevalence and food insecurity, the Government needs to find innovative solutions to support hard working families with children. Offering all primary age children a free lunch in school would be overwhelmingly popular with the public and especially families with school age children, according to recent polling conducted for the Children’s Food Campaign.

The polling reveals that:

· 66% of UK adults would like the Government to make school meals free for all primary age children.

· Public support rises to 72% of UK adults, when asked about this idea in the context of cost-of-living increases, including rising food prices and fuel bills.

· Public support also increases to 73% when respondents learn about commitments Scotland and Wales have already made to making universal meal provision for all primary school children and asked whether they support the same commitment for England.

· 85% of respondents with children aged 5-10, and 83% of respondents with children under 5 would like to see the Government make school meals free for all primary age children.

Click here to read more