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 uniforms. 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 called the Pupil Development Grant. This funding is £1,150 per child eligible for eFSM. It is important, that now the UPFSM scheme has been introduced, eligible families continue to follow the eFSM application process so as not to lose out on other benefits, but also so their school does not miss out on vital funding.
For more information on eFSM and uniform grants go to:
/en/Resident/Schools/Education-Benefits.aspx