School dinner costs rise again in Westminster once again

Angry parents in Westminster have hit out over plans to raise the cost of school meals for children in the borough.

As of September, children starting back at school after the Summer break will be needing an extra 5p per day for their meals across all nursery, primary and secondary schools. This follows the previous rise of 5p only a year ago.

Many parents are concerned about the long term cost to their families over a period of time and for those households where there are multiple children to pay for.

Many believe that the cost is unjustified since there are no plans to make meals more nutritious or larger in size and variety to substantiate the price rise.

Ms Bell is part of a Pimlico campaign group, called Inspiring Change Parents' Group, which wants Westminster Council to introduce free school meals for all pupils.

Currently, parents do not have to pay for children's meals if they are in receipt of income support, Jobseekers' Allowance or have a household income of less than £16,190 a year, but for those that do work and receive more than £16,190, they are burdened with the cost.

From September, meals for nursery and primary school pupils will rise from £1.75 to £1.80, and for secondary school pupils, from £1.80 to £1.85.

Head of Westminster Council's children and young people, Councillor Nickie Aiken, said: "Despite the tough economic climate, school meals in Westminster are still some of the cheapest in London and heavily subsidised by the council.

"Our school meals are healthy and nutritious and at £1.80 per meal, below the current London average of £1.92, provide excellent value for money for pupils."

So will low income families now opt for pack lunches for their children? Do you think this will become or already is a cheaper alternative? Sadly, even if this is the case, many parents who work for a living will struggle to find the time to prepare lunches every day for their children. 

Whatever you think, it does seem that low income families in Westminster are once again, the hardest hit. Do you think too little is being done to support low income families in favour of subsidising  unemployed households? Whatever you think, tell us your thoughts here!