Reports

Universal free school meals scoping report

Authors: Hannah Shaw, Dr Kirsty Little

Published on: 1st May 2022

All Wales/National

This scoping document outlines a brief overview of the findings of a scoping search conducted by the Evidence Service to identify sources relevant to outcomes relating to health inequalities arising from the provision of universal free school meals in
young children. Although systematic reviews have been identified regarding outcomes associated with universal free school meals, many look at the effectiveness of these interventions in terms of diet, food security, academic attainment etc., but the request was to specifically focus on the effectiveness of universal free school meals in terms of health inequalities and also unintended consequences such as widening health inequalities.

Report downloads

Universal free school meals scoping report

PDF, 161KB

Download PDF

Related reports

Supporting young NEET people with mental, behavioural and neurodevelopmental conditions into work

This briefing summarises a rapid review carried out to support a pan-Wales forum on employability and health. It addresses the question: what interventions are effective in supporting young people with […]

Published on:
Interventions supporting young people with mental, behavioural and neurodevelopmental conditions into work, and their impact on mental health

The aim of this rapid review is to identify and synthesise evidence on interventions that support young people who are NEET with a mental health, behavioural and/or neurodevelopmental condition into […]

Published on:
Public Health Outcomes Framework Reporting Tool

Current release: 22nd September 2026Next release: 15th December 2026 Contact for queries or feedback Introduction Main points In the latest iteration, the following indicators have been updated to include breakdowns […]

Published on: 22nd September 2026
Digital technology and health inequalities – A scoping review

In June 2018, the Welsh Government published its strategic plan to deliver a whole-system approach to health and social care, A Healthier Wales (Welsh Government, 2018). Population health and wellbeing […]

Published on: 1st January 2020
Use of the internet and digital technology to manage health in Wales – past, current, and future preferences

Published on: 1st January 2023
Is any job better than no job? A systematic review

Next update: Update not planned Contact for queries and feedback Introduction In 1999, the International Labour Organization set the goal of “decent work for all”, meaning work that is secure, […]

Published on: 1st November 2021

Back to the top

Related data

Public Health Outcomes Framework Reporting Tool Data

Last reviewed: 22nd September 2026
Health assets reporting tool

Last reviewed:
Health and its determinants in Wales 2018

Last reviewed:
Cumulative income deprivation 2017

Last reviewed:
What works to improve participation in work?

Last reviewed: 3rd January 2022
Housing evidence map

Last reviewed: 3rd February 2020

Back to the top