Denbighshire School Meal Prices to Rise by 5p Amid National Food Cost Increases
Families across Denbighshire will see a small rise in the cost of school meals later this month, as the County Council responds to continued pressure from food supply chain price increases.
From April 28, the price of a school meal will increase by 5p, a move officials say is necessary to keep pace with rising costs in both the commercial and domestic food markets.
The School Catering Service, which provides meals to schools across the county, has been facing inflation across all major food categories. The Council described the decision to raise prices as a “difficult but essential step” to ensure the service remains sustainable.
Despite the increase, Denbighshire’s school meal prices will remain among the more affordable options compared to other local authorities, according to Council leaders.
Councillor Diane King, Lead Member for Education, Children and Families, said:
“The decision to increase the cost of school meals was not taken lightly. However, even after this increase, these new prices will still be relatively low compared to other local authorities.”
She also highlighted the continued commitment to quality and value for money:
“As evidenced in their recent success at the APSE awards, the Council’s School Catering service are committed to providing value for money in terms of the quality of food given to pupils across our schools.”
Earlier this year, Denbighshire’s School Catering Service was named the best performing catering service at the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) awards, standing out among school meal providers nationwide. The recognition was based on a number of factors including uptake of both paid and free meals, staff training, and service performance.
Parents and guardians can find more information and view current school menus by visiting the Denbighshire School Meals website.
