Hundreds of children in York registered for free school meals are not receiving them, according to government figures released this week. The revelation follows news that a council ‘Task Group’ has been set-up to examine the issue of the low take-up of all school meals in York.

Figures show that out of 1,819 pupils registered for free school meals in primary, secondary and special schools in York only 75.7% actually took-up the dinners meaning 583 schoolchildren were not eating the free meals for which they were registered. Nationally, take-up is around 82%.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Ann Reid, who will chair the City of York Council cross-party Scrutiny Task Group, commented:

“The Task Group will be looking at the low take-up across the board but we know there is a particular problem with the take-up of free school meals. There are many reasons children don’t always choose to take the free school meal after registering, including possible stigma, preferring to leave school at lunchtime, and not liking the healthy options offered. Given this, the Task Group will look at what the Council can do to make sure schools get all the help and advice they need to increase uptake. This could be promotional work or expanding the ‘cashless’ system successfully used in many schools.”

Cllr Carol Runciman, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Children’s Services on City of York Council, commented:

“It is very concerning that over 500 children from poorer backgrounds in York are missing out on the free and nutritious school meal they are entitled to. In tough economic times with household budgets stretched this is a particularly pressing problem. The health benefits of pupils getting a good meal at lunchtime are clear, but research also confirms the role it can play in helping pupils focus and perform well in class.

“At the same time as increasing uptake we need to make sure families sign-up in the first place. Schools now receive additional funding, from the £2.5 billion a year Pupil Premium, for each student on their roll registered as eligible for free school meals. This fund, a key Lib Dem pledge at the last election, is specifically to help schools support their disadvantaged pupils and close the attainment gap between them and their peers, so it is vital schools don’t miss out on this funding, which is now worth £900 per pupil”.