Low-income households across Ealing are being urged to check their post for letters from Ealing Council that could unlock access to free school meals, nutritional support and care allowances. The targeted mailout is part of a wider campaign to boost incomes and ensure families aren’t missing out on support.
Last month (April 2025) Ealing Council contacted more than 2,000 residents to let them know of help that is available. 1,230 families were invited to apply for the Healthy Start scheme, which provides up to £280 a year to help buy milk, fruit and vegetables for young children and pregnant women.
Another 182 families – who have a combined total of 219 school-age children – have been told they are entitled to free school meals. That support, worth about £500 per child each year, also brings access to holiday food vouchers and activity programmes.
A further 925 residents were notified that they may qualify for Attendance Allowance, worth up to £108 a week for those needing regular help at home.
The campaign follows a successful pension credit initiative that secured over £1.2 million in extra annual income for 300 households.
Councillor Steve Donnelly, the council’s cabinet member for inclusive economy, said “Maximising residents’ incomes is one of the main ways we can support people living in Ealing to lead financially independent lives. Leading targeted campaigns like these will help to make sure our most vulnerable residents are getting everything they are entitled to.”
He added: “This is just the start of this more proactive approach and there will be more to come in future months so I would urge residents to look out for communications from us and take the necessary action.”
Ealing residents can check eligibility for help and support by using the Turn2Us benefits calculator or apply directly on the council’s website.
