1 / 6

Implementing Universal FSM in Newham

In 2009, Newham piloted Universal Free School Meals (UFSM), funded by local authorities, to enhance educational and health outcomes for children in a diverse, deprived borough. Despite challenges like short lead times and the need for capital investment, Newham continued the program post-pilot, allocating £5.5 million from its budget. Strong evidence showed increased uptake, healthier eating habits, and significant educational benefits, equivalent to 4-8 weeks of academic progress, while ensuring every child receives equal opportunities through comprehensive support initiatives.

avram-murphy
Télécharger la présentation

Implementing Universal FSM in Newham

An Image/Link below is provided (as is) to download presentation Download Policy: Content on the Website is provided to you AS IS for your information and personal use and may not be sold / licensed / shared on other websites without getting consent from its author. Content is provided to you AS IS for your information and personal use only. Download presentation by click this link. While downloading, if for some reason you are not able to download a presentation, the publisher may have deleted the file from their server. During download, if you can't get a presentation, the file might be deleted by the publisher.

E N D

Presentation Transcript

  1. Implementing Universal FSM in Newham Andrew Bazeley Policy Officer London Borough of Newham

  2. Background In 2009 Newham participated in a pilot of Universal Free School Meals. Match funded by local authorities Evidence has been instrumental in making the national case for UFSM A young, diverse, and deprived borough Our approach is to build resilience, and the early years are vital Much to gain in terms of educational and health outcomes for children, as well as offering a way to reduce poverty. Slide 2

  3. Challenges • Short lead time • Overcame through co-ordination and leadership • Additional capital investment required • In-house catering service • Flexibility and patience required on all sides • Further challenges down the line, e.g. Pupil Premium

  4. Why did we keep doing it? • Pilot ended – we kept going • Cost of £5.5m per year from a stretched Council budget • Strong evidence from the NatCen/IFS evaluation • Increased take-up amongst all children • Some improvements in healthy eating • Improved atmosphere and behaviour • Significant educational benefits – equivalent to 4-8 weeks progress • Benefits to parents

  5. Newham’s Every Child Programme Part of a comprehensive safety net for our young people, making sure they get the same opportunities that are available to resident of better off areas Every Child a Reader; Every Child a Musician; Theatregoer, Sportsperson, Chessplayer… Early investment pays off, and we’re determined to ensure that our residents get the best start in life. Slide 5

  6. Thank you for listening Slide 6

More Related