Simple terms explainer:

Local authorities must provide free school meals to children who meet Scottish Government eligibility criteria, including those from low‑income households receiving certain benefits. They must also provide universal free meals for all children in Primary 1 to 5 and for pupils in special schools, regardless of income. Local authorities are responsible for assessing applications, confirming eligibility, and ensuring meals are available during the school day. They must take reasonable steps to ensure that children receiving free meals are not identified or stigmatised. This also applies to children accessing their statutory funded early learning and childcare (ELC) entitlement. Local authorities must ensure that eligible children receive free meals as part of their funded ELC offer, regardless of whether provision is delivered by the council or through private, third sector, or childminding providers. Access to free meals must not depend on the type of provider used.