The summer holidays are fast approaching, yet countless parents are already fretting over how they’ll manage the expense of school uniforms come September. For those on a low income, there may be an entitlement to claim up to £200 towards this cost from your local council.
Typically, you need to be receiving benefits or free school meals, but this can differ based on each local authority’s rules. Some councils also consider the school age of your child.
All councils in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales provide this support, along with some in England, although funding has been drastically cut in recent years. The assistance isn’t a statutory requirement in England, meaning councils aren’t obligated to offer the support.
Recent research from the Schoolwear Association estimates the average cost of compulsory school uniform and sportswear is £101.19 per pupil annually. However, The Children’s Society suggests the cost is £422 per year for secondary school pupils and £287 for primary school pupils, reports the Mirror.
Understanding School Uniform Grants
For those living in England: Last year, only 31 councils in England offered school uniform grants, according to MoneySavingExpert.com, so parents face a postcode lottery for this support. The amount of help you could be entitled to also varies.
For instance, City of London council offers a grant worth £160 for secondary school pupils, while families covered by Sandwell Council received £25 last year.
Again, it’s probable that you’ll need to be on a low income, receiving benefits or getting free school meals to qualify for the support. If you’re uncertain about your local council, input your postcode on GOV.UK.
If you reside in Scotland: All councils in Scotland provide school uniform grants worth at least £120 for primary school children, and £150 for secondary school students. Councils have the discretion to pay more than this.
For instance, Shetland Islands Council can offer a grant worth £150 for early years, £180 for primary school pupils and £225 for secondary school students.
The eligibility criteria differ among councils but again, in most instances, you need to be claiming free school meals or benefits. Most councils will accept applications from July until the end of March.
If you live in Wales: All councils in Wales provide school uniform grants worth £125, or £200 if your child is transitioning into secondary school. The 2024/25 scheme is currently open and will close on May 31, 2025.
Again, each council establishes its own eligibility criteria and you typically need to be on a low income or claiming certain benefits. Find more details on Gov.Wales.
If you live in Northern Ireland: Families in Northern Ireland can receive up to £93.60 towards the cost of school uniforms for secondary school students aged 15 or older as of August 1, 2024. For those in secondary school but under the age of 15, the rate is £87.60.
Primary school pupils are eligible for a grant worth £42.90. The deadline to apply for the new school year is July 26, 2024, via the Education Authority website. To qualify for the school uniform grant, certain benefits must be claimed.
Other avenues for school uniform assistance
If your local authority does not provide a school uniform grant, you may be able to seek help through its Household Support Fund. It’s also advisable to speak with your school about any available assistance.
Certain charities offer grants to help offset the cost of school uniforms – typically, you’ll need to be on a low income or claiming benefits. Turn2Us provides a free grants search tool to help you find what support is accessible. Keeping an eye on local buy-and-sell Facebook groups for parents selling school uniforms is also a good idea.
