Chapter Nine: Conclusions and Recommendations
The following conclusions and recommendations are based on the findings from the desk research and from the discussions which have been carried out among local authority staff who deal with free school meals. However, these conclusions and recommendations are based on our interpretation of the research findings from both the desk research and interviews and do not necessarily reflect the view of the Scottish Executive. They are clearly only one element of the wider issues surrounding free school meal eligibility and should be taken in conjunction with other forms of evidence where possible.
The primary and secondary research findings from this study indicate that there is currently variation in the procedures undertaken within different local authorities concerning the identification of those eligible for free school meals and their subsequent registration.
Obtaining information on the registration process
The desk research conducted shows that the amount of information immediately accessible via local authority websites is inconsistent and, in some cases, it is difficult to obtain much information from websites. We believe there is a need to ensure that where information is provided on a website, that this is easily accessible, easy to navigate, up-to-date and written in clear and simple English.
A wide range of different application forms were collected for this study, and some were easier to read and understand than others. We would recommend that the Scottish Executive give consideration to producing a template application form for all local authorities to use. Given the benefits identified in combining an application form for both free school meals and school clothing grants, we would also recommend a combined application form is developed.
Criteria for eligibility
In terms of the criteria laid down for eligibility for free school meals, there are some inconsistencies as to how individual authorities interpret this information.
The need to share information across different departments
There were some instances cited where local authorities demonstrated the benefits of sharing information between different local authority departments and government departments. We would recommend that the Scottish Executive consider ways in which benefit agencies can work alongside local authorities in allowing them access to information that can help to identify those eligible for free school meals.
Using a range of information channels
The research findings highlighted that a wide range of information channels can be used to access application forms/ information on the registration process. The sharing of good practice examples across all local authorities would be welcomed by local authority staff. Some local authorities are very proactive in ensuring potential clients have as much opportunity as possible to gain access to application forms/ information for free school meals. The research has highlighted the range of innovative approaches which some local authorities have adopted. We believe there is room for such practices to be adopted across all local authorities. There is also a desire from local authorities for the Scottish Executive to adopt a role in the dissemination of information on good practice and what works - or does not work - in other local authorities. In the long term this can only result in an increase in the number of eligible parents / pupils registering for free school meals.
Offering up-to-date information
The initial desk research highlighted inconsistencies across local authorities as to the extent to which they keep information up to date on their websites in relation to free school meals and we believe it is important for all local authorities to ensure that information provided is up-to-date. Additionally, use of the Internet is growing as a communication channel and we believe that all local authorities should be encouraged to update information on websites as well as offering information via council offices and other sources.
Registration and re-registration
Inconsistencies are present as to how often local authorities ask their existing clients to re-register for free school meals. The research highlights that time frames range from once a year to every term. We can confirm that re-registration is necessary as clients circumstances in terms of income, employment and so on can change regularly.
The research findings surrounding the registration and re-registration process showed that there were differences between local authority policies on dates which registration run to. Some local authorities will accept applications for free school meals up until the second last day of a term. Other local authorities set a closing date whereby applications must be completed and returned.
Sharing information on good practice
Overall local authorities are positive about the current communication received from the Scottish Executive. However, there were suggestions that local authorities would welcome more comprehensive information on good practice adopted elsewhere in order to help them achieve a higher registration rate of eligible clients in their area. Additionally, there were some mentions for information/ guidance that local authorities could follow to aid them in completing their annual reports on the registration/ eligibility figures.
In summary
Overall, our findings lead us to believe that clarification and consistency across local authorities are key to ensuring that those who are entitled to free school meals across Scotland are identified and registered. Local authorities would benefit from receiving additional information such as good practice studies that will provide them with the knowledge and opportunities to provide the best possible service to applicants.
These measures would help to ensure that there is a systematic and consistent approach taken throughout all the local authorities within Scotland. From the findings it appears that local authorities themselves are aware of the inconsistencies in the approaches they adopt. They recognise it would be more productive for all to follow the same path in working towards registering all those eligible for free school meals.