Ensure equal access to free school meal support for children with food allergies
Open for signatures until 15 December 2026.
39 signatures
- More than 250 signatures: considered by the Petitions CommitteeNot reached
- More than 10,000 signatures: considered for a debate in the SeneddNot reached
The Welsh Government provides free school meals for primary school children, but some children with food allergies cannot safely eat the meals provided. Families in this position must provide packed lunches at their own expense. We ask the Welsh Government to provide food vouchers or equivalent support when a child cannot safely access free school meals because of medically diagnosed dietary needs.
More details
The Welsh Government’s Universal Primary Free School Meals programme supports families with the cost of living. However, some children cannot safely access school meals because of food allergies or other medically required diets.
My son is allergic to potato. Potato ingredients can be found in many foods, making it difficult for schools and catering providers to guarantee meals are safe for him. As a result, he cannot fully access the free school meal entitlement available to other children.
Families in this position must provide packed lunches at their own expense, despite being entitled to the same support as other pupils. Food allergies are medical conditions, not lifestyle choices.
We ask the Welsh Government to review this issue, collect data on affected children, and provide food vouchers or equivalent financial support where suitable school meals cannot be safely provided.
Signatures by constituency
The Senedd's petitions website lists 35 of the 39 signatures under a Senedd constituency.
| Constituency | Signatures |
|---|---|
| Caerdydd Penarth | 13 |
| Sir Fynwy Torfaen | 6 |
| Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg | 4 |
| Sir Gaerfyrddin | 3 |
| Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd | 2 |
| Afan Ogwr Rhondda | 1 |