The Institute for Fiscal Studies has confirmed that our changes will mean an estimated 50,000 more children will benefit from Free School Meals.
· The IFS’ report agrees with our estimations that 50,000 additional children will benefit from Free School Meals, saying ‘our analysis produces very similar results to those produced by government modellers.’
· The report is clear that it ignores our generous transitional protections. We are clear that no child who currently gets free school meals as part of the early rollout of Universal Credit will lose their entitlement once the rollout is complete. As such, any claims about children losing their meal are inaccurate – and causing families unnecessary distress.
· It also shows that children in lone parent families will be the main beneficiaries of changes to eligibility. Together with Tax Free Childcare and 30 hours of free childcare, we are helping hardworking parents with the cost of living and ensuring all children get the best possible start in life.