The number and proportion of Oldham’s children on free school meals have risen sharply since 2016. 

Oldham MP Jim McMahon has called the fact so many young people in the borough rely on free school meals as their only nutritious meal of the day ‘frankly unacceptable.’

Around 7,400 children were on free school meals in 2016/17 in the borough. 

In 2021, this figure had risen to over 13,300 – a rise of more than 80 per cent.

The proportion of Oldham’s schoolchildren eligible for free school meals in 2021/22 had risen from 17 per cent in 2016/17 to over 29 per cent in 2021/22 – a 70 per cent rise.

Nationwide, 22.5 per cent of pupils are eligible for free school meals, making Oldham above average.

The largest year-on-year increase came in 2020/21, when the number of children on free school meals jumped from around 9,500 to over 12,000 – a 25 per cent increase.

Jim McMahon, MP for Oldham West and Royton, was scathing in his response to the figures.

The Oldham Times: Jim McMahon MPJim McMahon MP

The Labour and Co-operative MP said: “For many of these children in Chadderton, Oldham and Royton, their Free School Meal is the only nutritious meal they’ll get that day, which is frankly unacceptable.

 “The Government have been in power for 12 years now and in this time we’ve seen the number of children living in poverty just go up and up.

“It’s not on and it’s time they come up with a plan to combat child poverty in the long-term.” 

A Government spokesperson said: “Over 1.9 million children are now eligible for free school meals, and we communicate regularly with schools and councils so they know what is available for these children.

“We know millions of families are struggling with the rising cost of living, which is why we are providing over £37 billion to target those with the greatest need.

“Our National School Breakfast Programme and the Holiday Activities and Food programme are also benefitting children across the country.”