To approve Torbay Council’s implementation of the expanded Free School Meals arrangements for the 2026/27 academic year, including the use of Targeted and Expanded eligibility categories, annual eligibility reviews, communications with families and schools, appropriate systems and data processes, and continued delivery of opt-out auto-enrolment, subject to the approved data protection and governance framework.

The decision implements the Department for Education changes from September 2026 and supports eligible children to receive a free, nutritious school meal.  It aligns with Torbay’s child poverty and cost-of-living priorities, reduces the risk of eligible families missing out, and gives schools timely and accurate eligibility information.  A coordinated approach is required to manage increased checks, annual reviews, data requirements, communications, school readiness and the distinction between Targeted and Expanded status.

Alternatives considered and rejected were retaining an application-only approach, because eligible children could remain unidentified; delaying implementation, because this would not align with the national commencement date; and relying solely on manual processes, because this would not be sustainable given the anticipated increase in applications and annual reviews.  Background papers include the Department for Education Free School Meals guidance, the Torbay Free School Meals Expansion 2026/27 briefing, the approved data protection impact assessment, and the Torbay opt-out auto-enrolment procedure.

This decision will come into effect immediately.

From September 2026, eligibility for Free School Meals is expanded to all children in households receiving Universal Credit.  Torbay Council must implement the Targeted and Expanded Free School Meals categories, undertake eligibility checks and annual reviews, notify families and schools, maintain accurate records, and support opt-out auto-enrolment.  The change increases the number of eligible children and creates additional operational, systems, communications and administrative requirements for the Council and schools.

Implementation will be led by Children’s Services with the Free School Meals Team, Education Data and Business Intelligence, Finance, Communications, Legal and Governance, and schools.  Delivery will include eligibility checking, annual reviews, maintenance of Targeted and Expanded records, family and school communications, opt-out auto-enrolment, review of linked policies and monitoring of uptake, operational pressures, school readiness and financial implications.  Progress and emerging risks will be reported through the agreed Children’s Services governance arrangements during 2026/27.

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