It’s never been easier to check your eligibility and apply for free school meals.

School meals are tasty, nutritionally balanced and great fuel for healthy minds and bodies, and help is available for those who might struggle with the cost. They are also a fantastic way to encourage children to try new things – sitting with their friends and seeing what they eat is often all the encouragement they need.

Parents and carers could be eligible for free school meals and they can quickly find out whether they qualify and apply online at www.hertsdirect.org/freeschoolmeals. This could save families over £300 per child per year and in most cases there is no need to provide proof of benefit. Registering for free school meals also brings additional funding to the child’s school.

There is a wealth of information online at the School Food Trust web site (www.schoolfoodtrust.org.uk) to help parents and carers make informed decisions on school meals as well as the diet and health of their children.