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Who can take part in Dudley HAF?
Your child can get a funded HAF place if they:
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are school-aged, from Reception to Year 11
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live in Dudley or go to a Dudley school
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meet the Targeted Free School Meals (FSM) rules.
Free School Meals are changing from September 2026. HAF remains linked to Targeted Free School Meals. Receiving Expanded FSM does not automatically make a child eligible for HAF.
Not sure which type of Free School Meals your child gets? Your school or Dudley Council’s Free School Meals team can help you check. Dudley Council Free School Meals page
Other children who may be able to get a HAF place
Dudley can use a limited number of HAF places for children who do not meet the Targeted FSM rules but who need extra support. These places are limited and may include:
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looked-after children living in low-income households
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young carers
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children who have an allocated professional supporting them and who have had an assessment of need
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children living in low-income households who are referred by a school or professional
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children needing urgent support who are referred by a relevant professional.
A professional referral is needed for this route. SEND or an EHCP on its own does not guarantee a funded HAF place; financial hardship or low income must also be a factor.
Not sure?
If you are not sure whether your child can take part, contact enquiries@hafdudley.co.uk