More than half (57%) say that extending FSM to all primary school children would have a positive impact on their family finances, as the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact families.
Around one third (31%) have had to cut the quantity or variety of their food shop since the start of the school year. From September 2026 every child from families on universal credit will get FSM, extending hot school dinners to more than half a million additional children.
The National Education Union says this polling demonstrates means-testing will always leave children and families behind. It continues to call for FSM for all children attending primary schools – as has been the case in London since 2023 and Wales since September 2024.
Daniel Kebede, general secretary of the National Education Union, said: "The overwhelming view of parents is that now is the time for free school meals for all primary school children. A full stomach makes for a more engaged learner.
“It makes good economic sense too: a generation thriving is good for the future of the country. That is why the Government and schools play a vital role in providing hot nutritious food every day for those in most need. But with the cost-of-living crisis showing no sign of ending, more families are struggling to make ends meet, and putting food on the table is one of the biggest challenges of all.
"That is why, if this Government is committed to giving 'every child the education they deserve', it must build on the progress it has already made in dismantling the two-child limit and expanding FSM to half a million children in families in receipt of universal credit from September. Ministers must build on the successes from London and roll-out universal free school meals to ensure no child is left behind."