Education Minister Paul Givan has confirmed an increase in the income threshold for free school meals and the school uniform grant, providing crucial financial assistance to low-income families across Northern Ireland.

From the upcoming 2025/2026 academic year, the Universal Credit income threshold for families applying for these essential supports will be raised from £15,000 to £15,390. This adjustment follows a comprehensive review of the eligibility criteria for free school meals and uniform grants undertaken by the Department of Education.

Announcing the threshold increase, Paul Givan stated: "Free school meals and uniform grants are essential supports for many families, helping to ease the financial pressures that they face. I have taken the decision to raise the income threshold after listening carefully to the views shared during the recent public consultation and considering the wider financial challenges facing households." The Minister explained that this increase aligns the threshold with inflation, ensuring continued access to vital help with school meals for families in need. He also committed to linking future increases to the rate of consumer price inflation, aiming to ensure the support keeps pace with the cost of living and consistently reaches those most in need.

"I would encourage families to check their eligibility against the criteria on the Education Authority website and to apply for free school meals and uniform grants as soon as possible," Mr Givan urged.

A summary of the responses received during the public consultation has been made available on the Department of Education’s website.

The Minister acknowledged the public engagement, adding: "In concluding this review, I gave careful consideration to all the views expressed during the public consultation. I want to thank the many individuals, organisations, and stakeholders who took the time to engage and share their perspectives."

While expressing a desire for broader provision, Minister Givan noted current financial limitations: "While I would have welcomed the opportunity to introduce universal free school meal provision, the current budgetary constraints facing both my Department and the wider Executive mean this is not achievable in the short term."

Information on free school meals and uniform grants and how to apply is available on the EA website at - www.eani.org.uk/financial-help/free-school-meals-uniform-grants