A Merseyside school seeing the impact of the cost of living crisis on the community has decided to take action.
The ECHO previously reported how a struggling mum has been forced to "cut back" after buying "ridiculously priced" school uniform items. Parents are really feeling the brunt of this year's uniform costs, and with rising bills, many will be finding themselves in financial hardship.
One 35-year-old told the ECHO she is struggling to pay her bills this month after being "wiped out" buying her child's uniform. Having spent over £300 on a list of uniform items, she questioned why cheaper alternatives could not be used.
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Now one Whiston school has taken the decision to provide a free uniform and PE kit for all new pupils starting next year. Those starting Saint Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic Academy in 2023 will have these items paid for from the school's budget.
One mum said this will be a "lifeline" for many families, and will "take a worry off their shoulders". The mum, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "My boy started high school this year and it was really hard finding the costs. You don't like to admit you're struggling but it's happening."
Speaking to the ECHO, headteacher Lee Peachey said staff at the school are "seeing first hand" the impact the cost of living crisis is having on the local community as he said the decision for a free uniform and PE Kit was the "morally correct action to take".
He added: "This will be paid for out of our own school budget as we firmly believe this is the morally correct action to take. All schools in the Pope Francis Trust have now also made this decision.
"We hope by providing this additional financial support, it will lessen the burden on families in this crucial time and transition period for their children. As we are a proud Catholic community at SEACA, we promote and insist upon a culture of love, kindness and politeness.
"This gesture is one of the ways that we are truly living out our Catholic mission and upholding our values of 'Love, Inspiration, Empowerment and Joy'. It also exemplifies some of the ways we are transforming our culture and improving our connection with our community in our journey to be exceptional.
"The news that we are providing a completely free uniform and PE kit was received very well by parents, grandparents and carers at our extremely busy open evening last night. There was a sense of immense gratitude from all visitors, and guests talked about our warm and welcoming Catholic ethos as soon as they stepped through our school gates. I was immensely proud of our staff and pupils last night. Well done to all at the SEACA family."
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