GMB calls for a political consensus on free school meals for junior school children
Free school meals should be extended to junior school children without means testing as this is good for children, good for their education and good for their families says GMB
GMB, the union for school support staff including catering workers, commented on announcement by the Lib Dems of 1st September of a manifesto commitment to extend universal free school meals to all junior school children.
Brain Strutton, GMB National Secretary for Public Services, said
“Universal free school meals without means testing is good for children, good for their education and good for their families. GMB wants to see the current provision for infant children extended to junior school age children where we expect the benefits to be even greater.
There have been problems from the introduction of the current provision for infant schools. See notes to editors for copy of GMB release of 6th March 201. These problems can be avoided when changes are planned, prepared and funded.
It is therefore vital that junior schools know what they will be expected to do come the September 2015 term so that they have the capacity and facilities available.
GMB calls on all political parties to make a clear and early commitment to universal free school meals for junior schools.
That way schools will know that whoever forms the next government there will be a commitment to providing universal free school meals in junior schools. That way heads and governing bodies and local authorities can co-ordinate their preparations and improve their kitchen and dining facilities where necessary. This will let school catering staff get on with the job of keeping our children well-nourished and ready to learn.”
