It's that time of year when parents will be looking to buy school uniform for their children in preparation of the new term.
But with the rising costs of living affecting families across the country, new school uniform can add to the financial struggles people are facing. From shirts, blouses, skirts and trousers to PE kit, costs can really start to add up.
To help parents, we asked all seven local authorities in the North East whether they are providing any grants to families and what support is available towards the cost of uniforms. We have provided their responses below.
Read More: M&S offers 20% off school uniform to help parents save cash ahead of new term
So scroll down to see what is happening in your area. And if you know of any other school uniform schemes in the North East that could help parents, let us know by emailing sonia.sharma@reachplc.com.
What help is available towards school uniform costs in your area?
Newcastle
A spokesperson for Newcastle City Council said: "We appreciate with the cost of living crisis and rising costs for families uniform could be a concern for parents and carers. Unfortunately the council is not in a position to provide financial support. Concerned parents/carers should speak to their school’s head for guidance about the support available."
South Tyneside
A spokesperson for South Tyneside Council said: "Currently most schools and some of South Tyneside’s voluntary organisations have recycling schemes so that families can access free new and nearly new items of uniform. Uniform is ‘poverty proofed’ in all schools i.e. standard colours for most items etc avoiding school branding where possible to keep down costs."
County Durham
Jim Murray, Durham County Council’s head of education and skills, said: “We appreciate with the current rise in the cost of living, money is a concern for many families and there are a number of ways in which parents and carers can access help with school uniform costs. Schools are encouraged to set up uniform re-use and recycle schemes, in line with statutory Department for Education school uniform guidance.
“We encourage parents and carers in need of support with school uniform costs to seek help from a range of voluntary sector organisations and charities in County Durham.”
North Tyneside
Jacqui Old, director of services for children and adults at North Tyneside Council, said: “We have lots of support available to help parents through their children’s education, and we know that the cost of uniform can be a concern for some. We work with families in the borough to provide support based on individual circumstances, which can include financial support to help with buying school uniforms. While we don’t have a grant system in place, we do work closely with the brilliant Community School Clothing Scheme who provide free uniform and equipment to those in need.”
More information about the Community School Clothing Scheme is available here.
Gateshead
A spokesperson from Gateshead Council said: "Parents and carers in Gateshead can access affordable school uniforms through their school’s own uniform recycling schemes, if they have them, as well as through local voluntary organisations such as the Gateshead West Pre-Loved Uniform Scheme."
Sunderland
Coun Louise Farthing, Sunderland's cabinet member for children, learning and skills, said: “Schools offer a range of support and parents should always contact their school in the first instance. The school will be able to tell them about their local offer, including local charities, uniform swaps and recycling schemes, as well as other funding available such as using the pupil premium.”
Northumberland
A spokesperson for Northumberland County Council said: "Good quality, pre-loved uniforms are available to everyone via a number of local groups and organisations across the county. Donating outgrown uniform is a great way to help sustain our beautiful environment and help others at the same time.
"If you are unsure where your nearest school uniform group is located, please get in touch with Northumberland Communities Together on 01670 620015 between 9am to 6pm, seven days a week or NCT@northumberland.gov.uk"
Read Next:
-
Top money saving tips for parents - from school forums and childcare hours to hand-me-downs
-
Seven ways parents can save money on their children's school uniform
-
Mum hits out at school's blazer policy after child came home 'dripping in sweat' in hot weather
-
6 ways to feed your family healthily for less as obesity levels among young children soar
-
Instagram mum reveals how to save money during school summer holidays but still have fun with kids
