MANY parents are missing out on saving �400 per year because they are failing to take up the Government’s free school meals programme, according to one North Somerset school.

Churchill Academy and Sixth Form is concerned that more and more families are choosing not to register for the free lunches because of the stigma attached to asking for help.

A spokesman for the school said the free school meals programme could save parents hundreds of pounds a year and called on them to register for the free school meals, even if they do not actually take up the offer.

Headteacher Barry Wratten said the confidential registering service allowed the school to receive the �488 pupil premium, which as well as going towards school meals, can also pay for school trips, music tuition and swimming lessons. The school will receive this money regardless of whether the child takes up the free meal offer.

He said: “Registering for free school meals is easy, totally confidential and will help us help your son or daughter through extra resources.

“And it doesn’t mean your child actually has to have free meals. That is up to the parents, but we would urge you to think about this seriously.”

Many families that receive financial support or Government grants, such as income support or jobseeker’s allowance, are eligible to register for the free lunches.

Parents interested in taking up the offer should call Alison Arnold by mid-January on 01934 854064.