FROM September, any Torfaen pupils who have missed paying for five meals will not be entitled to another.

Following a review, Torfaen council will introduce a new policy for dinner money collection after it was found that the level of unpaid meals has risen to what the local authority dubbed "unacceptable levels".

From September, all schools in the borough will only provide a maximum of five meals without payment.

Pupils, other than those entitled to free school meals, will not be provided with a meal unless payment is made or the account is in credit.

Pupils will be required to bring a packed lunch until the debt is paid or unless it is authorised by the school.

If a school agrees there is a genuine case of temporary hardship or dinner money is simply forgotten then a meal will be provided but payment will be required the following day.

A reminder will then be sent to inform the parent of non-payment.

If payment is not received for further meals a written reminder or text will be issued on each occasion with an offer to discuss any issues that may be preventing payment.

Cllr David Yeowell, executive member for education, said: "This new and consistent policy is fair to all parents. Without this income our ability to provide an effective, efficient service is made more difficult.

"The school meals service provides dinners for thousands of pupils but it’s dependent upon income to cover costs which will ensure it can continue to offer nutritional, healthy and varied options for all pupils.

"Anyone in genuine hardship should discuss the issue with the school or catering service. However, we’re aware there are pupils who are entitled to free school meals but are not receiving them so we’ll fully support parents in making an application."

Due to budget cuts, the policy will help the schools meals service achieve a £50,000 reduction in its budget for 2015/16.

To discuss non payment, hardship or free school meals, parents can contact the catering team on 01633 647715 or the application process and criteria is available on the Torfaen website.

*What do you think of the changes? Get in touch on 016333 77219 or email newsdesk@southwalesargus.co.uk