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Campaigner Christina Adane launched a petition to extend eligibility for free school meals to all those in need because she couldn’t understand how one of the richest nations of the world couldn’t provide access to at least one nutritious meal a day for children living in food poverty. The petition has been signed by more than 159,000 people.

In the foreword to the report, Adane said: “Every child deserves a decent, nutritious meal at lunchtime, and a fun and carefree day at school. But right now, around 800,000 children living in poverty don’t qualify for free school meals, even as the cost of living soars. For these students, lunchtimes are a horrible experience.

“Without good food, it’s harder for us to stay healthy, concentrate in school, and perform in our exams — even when we’re working our absolute hardest. It’s not fair that so many young people are put in this position.

“Free school meals is a policy that is all about young people - yet our voices are often excluded from the discussion. With this report we want to provide insight into the lives of young people who have experiences of free school meals, and those that really need access, but sadly don’t meet the hugely restrictive criteria.”

The eligibility criteria to receive a free school meal in England is extremely low, and has remained static while the cost of living has soared, resulting in 800,000 school age children in England living in poverty, but not being ‘poor’ enough to qualify for free school meals. Bite Back 2030 believes this shouldn’t be happening - every child deserves access to healthy, delicious food all year round.

As the cost of living crisis worsens and puts more children at risk of food poverty, Bite Back 2030 is urging the Government to take action by extending eligibility for free school meals to all children from families in receipt of universal credit, or equivalent benefits.

Victor, aged 14, shared his views: “If I had full and definite access to free school meals then it would save money, for our family allowing us to eat more healthy and nutritious food. It would also improve various other aspects of my life too, such as being able to be with friends in the canteen, and improving my performance in lessons.”

The petition, created by Adane, to extend eligibility criteria for free school meals has been signed by more than 159,000 people. To read the full report visit here.