To ask why do people not working claiming FSM get this for free?

changes - chances (intend to type quick when I’m irritated ! I’ve seen first hand how these schemes can help children so this thread has annoyed me!)

They are not getting free school meals, the school is receiving pupil premium funds...completely different. Only some children fall into both.

Sadly I think this is what a lot of people would prefer- to effectively punish the parents through their dc with a ‘why should you get this for free’ attitude.

These children need support, they need food and they need the engagement of adults who want to make a difference in their lives. Those critical of this system will be the first to moan when another generation is out of work - by supporting these dc their life changes and outcomes are likely to be far better than their parents - it’s a long term plan as well as a short term solution to poverty, hunger and education.

@Sprinkledusting I'm sure you're already doing this but thought I'd mention just in case, are you using the tax free childcare accounts to pay for your wraparound care? The government basically tops up what you pay into the account by 20% so it reduces your childcare bill (with Ofsted registered providers) to 80%. Some after school club franchises that do dance or football sessions in our area are Ofsted registered as they run full day camps in holidays and so you can get 20% off those by using your TFC account.

The issue isn't that our most vulnerable children get things for free. The real issue is that some families have 2 working parents and still cannot afford to pay for their DC to do basic things because the cost of living here (accommodation, taxes, food, travel) is so high.

If we our government didn't waste shit loads of money, and let massive companies pay little tax, there would be more money to support our future generations.

Our country is screwed, basically. It has regressed massively.

Really interested to read the variety of comments here, thought I’d share my experience from an organisational standpoint.

As someone who has (voluntary basis) organised out of school holiday activities with a set aside allocation for FSM pupils to receive free places, my frustration has been the extremely low take up and interest in these activities from fsm parents, despite being offered free places and offered in a way that makes it ‘blind’ to ability to pay. All children treated equally, activities open to all, regardless of ability to pay.

The activities - theatre, arts and crafts - have been very popular amongst non fsm families but there’s been a real lack of interest amongst fsm families, many of whom just don’t respond, despite being emailed, hard copy slips placed in school book bags etc.

Take up is probably about 20-30% of all fsm parents whereas sharp elbowed (non fsm) parents who recognise the value of what is being offered are quick to book.

I find this really depressing. It’s the lack of aspiration, lack of value placed on enriching activities even when offered and prioritised and included on programmes with children from all financial backgrounds.

Hope you've got your hard hat on I see a pile on on the horizon.

Wait until you hear about pupil premium!

It’s just an easy way to assess who’s on the lowest income without an extensive means test. If you aren’t entitled to FSM you are better off than those who are

I wasn’t feeling jealous beforehand, but having watched that video I’m now having a little cry. It’s just not right.

Just want to point out the eligibility for FSM:

Universal Credit - if you apply on or after 1 April 2018 your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get)
*
Look how skint you have to be to receive it.* *

Anyone who receives it can have all the free breakfast clubs in the world for me since their household income is disgustingly low.* *

Maybe think about that before moaning about what they do get.*

Where I live the areas aren't great but the houses are with a reasonable big garden. It wouldn't be an issue if I was that in that situation to live in them.

FWIW about three months after my husband bought his house he lost his job and never been able to getting the same paid job. Yes we are lucky to have a mortgage but it isn't paid off yet and we struggle financially hence the UC so in some ways we are no better situation than you.

Yes , thank you! We don’t actually claim the fsm, although we could, she just continues to get the pupil premium and the school really want the extra funding.

I made that comment as someone who helps oversee delivery....not a service user.

Regardless, just because something is free doesn't mean people have no right to criticise it's quality. Surely it's common sense that what's in your area will be different in another?

No I'm not.

I've said before it's a crude measure sure. But they need a cut off and an objective way of doing it.

Have you spoken to the school and let them know you are struggling? Our head has some discretionary places on club and trips to give out outside of the criteria, because we know the criteria doesn't perfectly capture the actual need. We rely on the senior leadership of the school to know families and use judgement. If you talk to school they might be able ot help or signpost alternative services depending on your local situation and personal circumstances.

As if any of you would actually want to live in HA. There are threads on here all the time "should I buy a house near HA properties" and the general consensus is that they're full of anti social yobs.

Precisely. A secure tenancy from a local authority or housing association is much more secure than any mortgaged property.

So don't do it then! Rent a home and live like that!

I'M so sick of people saying that renting and getting UC is such a great life but they actually don't want to live that life themselves! Can't be that good then can it?

Children of feckless parents are better off in childcare than at home. That says it all really. Your child is loved and cared for, the opportunities you give are not material but much more important things such as work ethic, moral integrity. There are free things you can do - libraries have things on in the holidays for example. Holiday clubs are just childcare - they aren't some amazing thing that kids love. Most kids would rather be at home given the choice

Children who grow up in homes where there is generational unemployment are more likely to be exposed to other social issues (alcohol, drugs, domestic violence, neglect, abuse etc.) and are less likely to attain employment in the future.

Giving them further opportunities for education and social inclusion just narrows the gap with their peers and increases their likelihood of future success. It doesn’t disadvantage anyone.

And if,God forbid in the future OP finds herself unable to afford her mortgage payments,what then? She'd find herself turfed out by the bank/building soc that actually owns the property and homeless. No assured tenancy for her. So sick of seeing this trotted out on MN that 'home owners' have to put up and shut up because they're so privileged when in fact until the mortgage is payed off in full they own nothing.

FSM aside this gets posted a lot on here

You're right though it makes no sense

These threads, fuck me. some people!

OP I can understand your frustration if you're struggling financially. But it isn't a race to the bottom and I'm not sure why you would begrudge hungry children getting fed and cared for. Statistically, children on FSM do worse in life so it's about breaking that cycle. Taking something away from them won't benefit you.

You are lucky you own your home, providing stability for your family.

As others have said, you seem to have researched how to drop your hours to get FSM - if that's what you really want, then go for it. Good luck!