Shocking statistic of children in poverty as free meals expanded

NEARLY HALF OF ALL MANCHESTER PUPILS QUALIFY FOR HELP

- By M.E.N. REPORTERS

IT HAS been revealed that more children qualify for free school meals in Manchester than anywhere else in the country after a major change to the system was announced.

The government said yesterday from next year all children from families who receive Universal Credit will be eligible for the free meals.

Labour said it could save parents up to £500 a year. More than half a million children across the country are expected to become eligible as a result of the change.

In Manchester, Department for Education data revealed nearly half of all pupils - 47.2 per cent - were eligible for free school meals in the city in January 2025. That was the highest proportion in the country.

It means that in an average class of 30 Manchester youngsters, 14 may live in families which need help to top up their incomes with benefits, such as Universal Credit or Jobseeker’s Allowance.

Another statistic published last year showed that one pupil in that class of 30 will live in temporary homeless accommodation, painting a grim picture for the city’s youth.

Now, Manchester council has responded to the latest figures.