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Starting in January, the council will fund school lunches for all Key Stage 2 children (Years 3 – 6) who attend a Westminster primary school. The funding will be given directly to schools and has been agreed for an initial period of 18 months to support families struggling with the cost of living crisis.

Free school lunches are already provided for children in Reception and Key Stage 1 (up to Year 2) which is funded by the Department for Education.

Councillor Adam Hug, Leader of Westminster City Council, said: “Many working families who don’t qualify for free school meals are facing financial difficulties this winter as the cost of living crisis bites. This £2.7million investment will offer direct support to those who need it most and ensure that children don’t go hungry at school.

“Westminster City Council is determined to help our most vulnerable residents as food prices and energy bills soar. The free school lunch offer is in addition to a £10 million package of cost of living support which will create new food banks and help residents pay their energy bills.”

Research has shown that if children do not have enough to eat they are less likely to achieve their potential at school. The research also found that children who experience food insecurity are more likely to suffer from stress and anxiety.

Cory Mclauchlan, head of school at Robinsfield George Eliot Federation, added: “Some of our most vulnerable families are really struggling this winter and there’s a real danger that many families could have to choose between heating and eating. 

“At George Eliot Primary School we have a strong commitment to providing healthy meals every day and making sure our children are always ready to learn. The free lunch offer from Westminster Council will therefore make a huge difference to families and guarantee that no child is left behind.”