Is Your Child Eligible for Free School Meals?
| Published: 8th October 2008 13:18 |
Don't miss out on free school meals for your children because of changes in the benefits system, Hertfordshire County Council is advising parents.
From October 27, people who are newly unfit for work will receive a new benefit called Employment and Support Allowance - ESA. This will eventually replace the current benefits for people who are unfit for work: incapacity benefit and income support.
If, after October 27, you are receiving income based ESA, you will qualify for free school meals, in the same way that income support claimants get them now.
People who get the new ESA based on their national insurance record may qualify for free school meals, but that depends on any other income or benefits they receive.
"If you think your circumstances could entitle you to free school meals for your children, we advise you to call the Customer Service Centre," said County Councillor Keith Emsall, Executive Member for Education. "Changes to the way the benefits system works can be confusing and our staff are there to help with any concerns people may have."
Other education benefits people may be eligible for include:
- Savercard and Traincard
- Help with music fees
- Help with cycling training fees
Contact the Customer Service Centre on 01438 737370, choosing option 1 for application and option 2 for enquiries. Or visit Hertfordshire County Council's website, which has a link on the right hand side for "How Can We Help" applications.
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