London’s Deputy Mayor for Children and Families, Joanne McCartney, recently visited Grange Primary School in Ealing to celebrate the success of the Mayor of London’s Universal Free School Meals scheme. Accompanied by Ealing and Hillingdon Assembly Member Bassam Mahfouz, McCartney met with students in the school’s gardening club, where they learn about sustainable eating practices. This includes growing fruits and vegetables and preparing nutritious meals. The visit also included discussions with teachers and catering staff about how the program is benefiting students’ health, wellbeing, and academic performance.

Joining McCartney and Mahfouz were local MP for Ealing Central & Acton Dr Rupa Huq and Ealing Council leader Councillor Peter Mason. The group discussed the positive impact of the initiative since its launch in 2023, with over four million free lunches served in Ealing’s state primary schools. This program not only ensures that every student receives a hot, healthy meal each day but also helps families save up to £500 per child annually, providing financial relief during challenging times.

An independent evaluation by Impact on Urban Health revealed that universal free school meals have alleviated financial burdens on households, enhanced children’s nutrition, and fostered stronger school communities throughout London. McCartney expressed her delight in witnessing firsthand how the Mayor’s funding is making a tangible difference in Ealing, particularly in educating young Londoners about the origins of their food and promoting healthy, sustainable eating habits.

Mahfouz emphasized the transformative impact of three years of free school lunches in Ealing, noting that it has improved student concentration, eliminated stigma, and served as a crucial source of nourishment for many children. The program has also been a lifeline for families, enabling them to redirect funds towards other essential expenses to support their children. Grange Primary School’s dedication to providing every child with a strong foundation for success was evident during the visit, and the introduction of free breakfast clubs, as proposed by the government, is expected to further enhance the positive outcomes already achieved.