SCHOOL LUNCH ACCOUNTS.

(Posted on 23/10/18)

We have received phone calls from some parents concerned that their child has been refused food in the canteen as they have no money in their account.

 PLEASE BE AWARE THAT THE SCHOOL MEALS SERVICE OPERATES INDEPENDENTLY OF THE SCHOOL. THE CANTEEN IS RUN BY THE AUTHORITY AND NOT THE HEADTEACHER OR STAFF. IF PUPILS ARE REFUSED FOOD BY THE CANTEEN STAFF, IT IS ON THE DIRECT INSTRUCTION OF THE LOCAL AUTHORITY. THIS DECISION IS NOT MADE BY THE SCHOOL.

 The local authority has written to parents of primary aged pupils across the county advising them that they must clear any outstanding balances by November 5, 2018 or face the possibility of youngsters not being fed.

 In the letter sent by Wrexham Council it says: “Wrexham School Meals are unfortunately no longer able to continue allowing parents and guardians of primary school pupils to run up debts on meal accounts, and from 05/11/18 you must ensure that all school meals are paid for in advance.

 

“This is the same system currently in place for high school pupils in Wrexham.”

“Any existing debts must be cleared by that date, and we will not serve any meals to pupils whose accounts are in debt, you will need to provide a packed lunch.”

We understand that the decision taken by the local authority may have caused anxiety to some parents. We have attached a copy of the letter sent by the authority to primary pupils. In the letter, they clearly state that the same rules apply in secondary provision.

If you have any questions about the policy, please direct them to the School Meals Service at Wrexham Local Authority.