Free school meals for all primary pupils are on the menu in Inverclyde after the council became the first in Scotland to introduce the policy in time for the new term.

Previously all Inverclyde pupils up to and including primary fives were entitled to free school meals. Now hundreds more in primary six and seven are set to benefit from the policy.

While local authorities are being encouraged by the government to prepare for a national roll-out of free school meals in all Scottish primaries, there is currently no date for the introduction or confirmed funding.

The policy is expected to cost Inverclyde Council around £350,000, which includes a one-off investment in school kitchens and dining areas to cater for the increased uptake at lunchtimes and to cover the loss of income that would usually come from meal charges.

Work on upgrades to kitchens and canteens has begun and will continue throughout the new term.

Councillor Jim Clocherty, Inverclyde Council’s education convener, said: “I’m proud that we’re leading the way by introducing fully funded free school meals for all primary pupils.

“This will provide a massive boost to many of our families who are struggling with the cost of living crisis and is part of our commitment to do all we can to tackle child poverty.

“Every child from primary one through to primary seven can now access a healthy, nutritious lunch in the comfort of one of our new or refurbished schools without cost to their families.”