For years, my son has been able to enjoy gluten-free chicken nuggets and fish fingers alongside his friends at school, thanks to the catering services. These meals are not just food for him; they are a source of joy and normalcy in his school routine. However, since Aspens Catering Service UK has taken over, they have stopped providing these gluten-free options. This change has left my son, who has coeliac disease and is undergoing an autism assessment, feeling excluded and unhappy.

Having a child with specific dietary needs is challenging in itself, and it's disheartening to learn that they are unable to partake in the same meals as their peers due to budget constraints. Gluten-free alternatives are widely available, and it is essential for Aspens to address this gap and ensure no child feels left out. In previous years, sourcing gluten-free fish fingers and chicken nuggets was never an issue, which makes this current situation even more frustrating.

My child's right to enjoy his favourite meals, especially on Fridays when his classmates relish them, is a matter of inclusion and fairness. No child should feel singled out or different because of health-related needs—there are suitable options readily available, and more often than not, it only requires a bit of effort to put them on the menu.

It's not too much to ask for my son and other children with similar dietary requirements to receive the same consideration. All schoolchildren deserve a meal experience that is dignified and inclusive. It’s not just about food; it’s about ensuring every child’s happiness and well-being. Let us urge Aspens Catering Service UK to reconsider their menu and make necessary adjustments so children like my son can enjoy their lunch fully.

Please support our call to action so that Aspens Catering Service UK starts providing gluten-free options like fish fingers and chicken nuggets, ensuring that every child has access to their favourite meals, regardless of dietary restrictions. Signing this petition means advocating for a childhood where dietary needs are respected and inclusion is prioritised. Please sign and share.