The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act, passed on 29 April 2026, introduces a package of cost‑of‑living measures designed to ease pressure on parents and boost support for children in England and Wales.  

From this September, schools must limit branded uniform items to just three, helping cut the cost of compulsory uniform. At the same time, 500,000 more children will become eligible for free school meals, and more than 2,000 free breakfast clubs will open across the country to ensure pupils start the day fed and ready to learn. UK Government says this will save families up to a £1000 in food and school related costs.
  

The Act also introduces what ministers call the most ambitious safeguarding overhaul in a generation. This includes protections for children in care, combatting illegal children’s homes, expands “Staying Close” support for care leavers up to age 25, and gives Ofsted new powers to act when providers fall short.  

Officials say the Act delivers on promises to cut costs, raise standards and put children’s safety first. Advocates, including the Children’s Commissioner for England, have welcomed the reforms but stress that the real test will be how quickly and effectively they are implemented. 

Read the full press release