Understand
Warrington Borough Council to end £500,000 school meals subsidy by September 2027
Overview
Warrington Borough Council has announced it will end its council-run school meals service by September 2027 in a bid to save £500,000 annually. The service currently operates at a loss and has faced operational challenges. Schools will need to make alternative catering arrangements, either by providing meals directly or using external contractors. Up to seven management and support staff could face redundancy, while the council has committed to working with schools, staff, and trade unions to protect employment rights and minimise disruption.
Key points
- Warrington Borough Council is cutting its £500,000 annual subsidy for the council-run school meals service.
- The service will officially end in September 2027, requiring schools to make alternative catering arrangements.
- The council-run service currently loses about £500,000 a year and has experienced operational challenges such as failing to provide hot meals.
- Maintaining the existing service without the subsidy would require raising meal prices to £3.60 and potentially over £4 in later years.
- Up to seven management and support staff could face redundancy, though employment rights will be protected and discussions will be held with trade unions.