Universal Primary Free School Meals (UPFSM) - It is Welsh Government’s aim that every child in primary school in Wales will be eligible for a universal primary free school meal (UPFSM) by 2024, regardless of household income. There will be no forms to fill in. Receiving a UPFSM in this way does not automatically entitle families to receive other benefits such as school uniform grants.
Free School Meals (eFSM) - Some families who meet certain criteria, for example those on lower incomes or in receipt of certain benefits, are entitled to receive a free school meal (eFSM).
On a successful application for eFSM families are then eligible for other benefits to cover the cost of school essentials such as school uniform grants (PDG).
Even though the roll out of UPFSM will begin in September 2022, and eligible year groups will begin to receive free school meals, families who are eligible for eFSM should continue to use the eFSM application process to ensure they don't lose out on other benefits.
For more information on eFSM and uniform grants go to:
https://www.flintshire.gov.uk/en/Resident/Council-Tax-and-Benefits-and-Grants/Free-School-Meals-and-Uniform-Grants.aspx
As well as families, schools also benefit from eFSM. For every child who applies for and is granted an eFSM, their school can also access funding to help pay for school essentials to benefit learners.