London's free school meals should be replicated nationwide according to new report
Charity Impact on Urban Health said over 8 in 10 parents said free school meals had helped their household finances
London's free school meals policy where all primary school children get a free hot dinner should be replicated nationwide, according to an independent evaluation.
Impact on Urban Health, a charity that focuses on making cities healthier, found that free school meals 'significantly improved' the lives of children and their families across London.
The evaluation found free school meals not only helped ease financial pressures for families, but also positively influenced the health and wellbeing of children.
Currently 1 in 3 children in London live below the poverty line after housing costs, with families on low incomes being hit hardest.
84% of parents told the evaluation the policy had helped or significantly improved their household finances.
31% said their child's mental wellbeing had improved and 35% said their child now enjoys school more since the policy came in.
Responding to the report, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said “I’m delighted that our funding to provide free school meals for all state primary school children in London is having such a significant positive impact.
“Delivering free school meals has been one of my proudest policies as Mayor, and it is hugely encouraging to hear how it is supporting families struggling with the cost of living, improving the health and wellbeing of children, and positively impacting school communities. That’s why I have made the historic decision to make free schools meals permanent in London for as long as I am Mayor.
“I will continue to do all I can to support Londoners as we continue to build a fairer and healthier London for everyone.”