Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: September 24, 2025

Purpose: This paper seeks a decision on the funding methodology for the Mayor of London's Free School Meals offer for 2025-2026 to be applied in Croydon – as per the options and recommendations in Section 3 and approval of the acceptance of the grant funding

Content: For the reasons set out in the report, the Executive Mayor and Cabinet is AGREED:   2.1. To accept the reduced base allocation from the GLA of £6,111,967.50 to enable all primary school pupils across Croydon to receive free school meals throughout the 2025-2026 academic year.   2.2. To agree that the Universal Free School Meal allowance for pupils in Year’s 3-6 be funded at a cost of £3.00 per pupil covering 190 days with a take up estimated percentage of 87% as set out by the GLA.   2.3. To note the requirement placed on all London councils to implement an auto-enrolment strategy to ensure all eligible families are registered for Benefits-Related Free School Meals (FSM).