Who can get the payment?
You can get the payment if your child:
- receives Free School Meals on financial grounds
- has an approved Free School Meals application by Friday 2 October 2026
When will I get the payment?
If your child already receives Free School Meals, or your application is approved by Friday 2 October 2026, we aim to make the payment by Friday 9 October 2026.
Payments will be made using the bank account details we currently hold for you.
If you apply after 2 October
If you apply for Free School Meals after Friday 2 October but before schools break up on Friday 9 October, and your application is approved, your Holiday Food Payment will be issued after the school holidays.
Applications approved after Friday 9 October 2026 will not qualify for the October Holiday Food Payment.
Apply for Free School Meals
If you think you may be eligible, apply as soon as possible.
For more information about Holiday food eligibility and how to apply, visit our Holiday food payments page.