5m
13 Nov 2020

Will public support for free school meals change attitudes to the welfare system?

Social Affairs Editor and Presenter

In many ways it made no sense. When the government refused to fund free school meals during half-term, pubs, tiny cafes, small businesses and community groups, many at breaking point themselves, stepped in.

Footballer Marcus Rashford won widespread public support for his campaign and forced two government U-turns. But what happens next?

Charities say it’s time to reform the benefit system to create a more permanent solution for families who’ve struggled long before the pandemic. But would the public back improved benefits?