Overview

This bill aims to automatically register all children in England and Wales eligible for free school meals (FSM), streamlining the process and ensuring no eligible child misses out. Parents will retain the right to opt their child out of the scheme.

Description

The bill introduces a duty for local education authorities (LEAs) to identify all eligible children and inform relevant state-funded schools. Schools are then obligated to provide free school meals to these children, unless parents opt out. The Secretary of State will create regulations to facilitate information sharing between LEAs, schools, and other relevant bodies. These regulations will also define “state-funded school” and detail the opt-out process. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining confidentiality for children and their families. The act will apply to England and Wales and come into effect upon passing.

Government Spending

The bill is likely to increase government spending on free school meals as it aims to automatically register all eligible children. However, the exact financial impact is not specified in the bill and will depend on the number of newly registered children.

Groups Affected

• Eligible Children: Will benefit from automatic enrollment in the free school meals program, potentially reducing administrative burden for families.
• Parents/Guardians: Will have the right to opt their child out of the scheme. They also need to be aware of the information sharing that will occur to ensure eligibility.
• Local Education Authorities (LEAs): Will have a new duty to identify eligible children and provide information to schools.
• State-funded Schools: Will be responsible for providing free school meals to identified eligible children, subject to parental opt-out.
• Government Departments and Agencies: Will need to work together to ensure smooth information exchange.

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