DENBIGHSHIRE residents have been encouraged to take advantage of the Universal Primary Free School Meals (UPFSM) scheme in the county before the start of the new academic year.

In December 2021, Welsh Government revealed plans to offer free meals to all primary school pupils in response to the rising cost-of-living pressures on families, with the aim that, by September 2024, all children in primary schools across Wales will receive free school meals.

Earlier this year, the UPFSM offer in Denbighshire had been successfully rolled out from reception to Year Six, meaning every primary school pupil in Denbighshire had access to free school meals ahead of Welsh Government’s target date.

READ MORE:

Prestatyn pupils going ‘hungry’ as a result of ‘meagre lunch rations’

If parents or carers are in receipt of certain benefits and have a household income which does not exceed the current government threshold, they could be entitled to free school meals for their child.

Cllr Diane King, Denbighshire County Council’s lead member for education, children and families, said: “It is fantastic that pupils in primary school across Denbighshire have access to a free warm meal.

“I’d like to acknowledge the dedicated work of our staff to achieve such a milestone ahead of schedule.

“The provision of school meals are essential in a child’s learning and development, and the catering team continue to work with local suppliers to provide a hot nutritionally balanced meal at lunchtime.

“Denbighshire County Council are committed to healthy eating and are working hard with schools to promote the health and welfare of pupils.”

To view the menu, or for more information, visit the Denbighshire school meals website.