Move to boost uptake of free school meals

FREE school meals (FSM) provision in Monmouthshire could be handed over to Torfaen County Borough Council to assess for a two-year trial period.

The assessment will be handled by the shared benefit service which is operated by Torfaen and already processes the benefit entitlements of Monmouthshire residents.

The council is hoping to see an uptake in FSM entitlement similar to their neighbouring authority.

Finance manager Nikki Wellington said: “During 2017/18 Torfaen County Borough Council moved their assessment of FSM from education to the shared benefit service and as a result they have seen an increase in entitlement of FSM by 20%.”

Mrs Wellington added that an increased take up of FSM in Monmouthshire could “reduce the cost burden to families”.

The report also highlights that due to the roll-out of Universal Credit in Monmouthshire in June 2018, the council would naturally see an increase in FSM entitlement. But the increase in claims would be far greater if the shared service with Torfaen was utilised.

If supported by the children and young people select committee on Thursday, May 17, there could be a number of cost implications.

“The cost to transfer the service is £15,500 per annum. This will be funded via a vacancy that is currently being held open,” said Mrs Wellington.

“There will be an increase in the catering budget to provide that FSM, however, the benefits are likely to outweigh any additional costs.