Rising costs have been blamed for a planned price increase for school meals across Gedling borough – which will go up by £2 per week.
Nottinghamshire County Council says major financial pressures including rising food, staff and energy costs mean that a meal will increase from £2.55 to £2.95 and will take effect from October 16, 2023.
The council said it is down to the schools’ discretion whether they pass on this increase to parents and guardians.
The rise will affect most schools across Notts.
Councillor John Cottee, Nottinghamshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “Rising inflation has a big impact on us all and we know it’s been a tough time for local families.
“High food and staff costs have caused major financial pressures for our catering service team, which we have taken into account when reviewing our school meal prices.
“Unfortunately, we have little option but to propose a moderate increase for schools.”
Councillor Tracey Taylor, Nottinghamshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Families added: “While this is not a decision we have taken lightly, the increase compares favourably with other providers, and we continue to contribute towards the overall costs of providing the meals.
“The new price still represents very good value for these high quality, nutritionally balanced meals that we provide to schools for the children.
“We have contacted all of the schools we provide meals to since the beginning of the new term, this includes emails and letters, as well as speaking to the majority of schools via phone to ensure they are aware of these changes and can pass on this information to parents and guardians where relevant.”
