FREE SCHOOL MEALS FOR ALL
UNISON is campaigning for the delivery of universal nutritious free school meals for all children. We know our members working in school catering do incredible work and we want to ensure they are both recognised and valued for the work they do.
FREE SCHOOL MEALS PLEDGE LAUNCH
On Thursday 12th March 2026, UNISON will hold an event at Coláiste Feirste, Belfast, to mark International School Meals Day and launch a pledge calling on politicians to commit to supporting universal free school meals and valuing the catering workforce and infrastructure that make high-quality school food possible.
The event will bring together school staff, pupils and trade union representatives for a panel discussion celebrating the importance of school meals and the vital contribution made by school catering staff who prepare and serve nutritious hot meals for children every day.
The pledge calls on elected representatives to support the introduction of universal free school meals and to recognise the importance of investing in the kitchens, facilities and skilled workforce required to deliver healthy meals in schools.
The event will provide an opportunity to highlight the positive impact of school meals programmes and to recognise the essential role played by school catering staff in supporting children’s health, wellbeing and education.
Anne Taggart, Branch Secretary of the Unison Belfast Education Branch , said ‘We’re celebrating the fact that NI has the best school meals offer in these islands and we are calling on our decision-makers to protect the excellent service we deliver. We are also concerned that the price increase is making it harder for many families to choose school meals for their child so universal free school meals is needed now more than ever.’
EVENT DETAILS
Where: Coláiste Feirste, Belfast
When: Thursday 12th March 2026
Time: 10am - 11am
Download the pledge here:
SIGN THE PETITION
Stop the school meal price increase petition - December 2025.
Provide the funding needed to stop the increase in the price of school meals, due to rise by 20% in January 2026.
ACT NOW PETITION
Sign our petition calling on the NI Executive to support and properly fund the provision of universal free school meals.
How can you help?
Do you work in a school? Are you a parent with children who avail of free school meals? Are you a parent who supports our call for free school meals for all?
We want to hear from you! Simply fill out the form using the buttons below and tell us your experience or why free school meals are important to you.
If you are interested in getting more involved in the campaign email campaignsni@unison.co.uk leaving your contact details and we will give you a call.