All families in England are at breaking point with the cost of school uniforms. This funding pressure is fueling calls for increased transit funding. Michelle Hawthorne, who co-runs an initiative providing second-hand school uniforms in Winsford, Cheshire, said the cost is an “incredible” burden. The cost of primary school children’s uniforms averaged more than £340. In stark contrast, secondary school students spend an average of £454 on their uniforms.
As families from coast to coast get ready for the back to school rush. Most are facing financial hardship to cover the costs of purchasing uniforms. Carrie, a working parent, has just paid out £200 to replace Dillon’s uniform. She acknowledges this money exists, but points out that with increasing costs of living it is challenging to cover costs like these.
Councils in areas such as London, Yorkshire and the north west provide varying degrees of help, from £30 to £170 per child. Yet across England, hundreds of local authorities don’t do enough to support everyone consistently. In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland families can get from £93 to £200 per child to help them with back-to-school clothing. This financial support is only accessible to those who are eligible for means tested benefits.
Adam Rolfe, policy and public affairs officer at Money Wellness, advocates for grants to be offered as standard to low-income families struggling with uniform costs. He points out that all of this comes as the new school year adds to financial pressures, all while household bills are on the rise.
“For many low-income households, even with such savings, uniforms will remain unaffordable without proper support.” – Adam Rolfe
Jason, a fellow change champion, anticipates that councils will set the bar for the type of assistance provided to help ensure it’s available nationwide. He emphasizes the need for a consistent national approach to ensure that no child is disadvantaged due to their location.
“We urgently need a consistent, national approach to school uniform support to ensure no child is disadvantaged simply because of where they live.” – Adam Rolfe
The Local Government Association recognizes the difficulty that councils experience in trying to provide consistent support when funding is so unequal. Pressing financial pressures on council budgets have made sustaining these concessions increasingly difficult.
“While some councils choose to help parents with the cost of school uniforms, funding pressures on council budgets make it increasingly difficult for them to continue these concessionary grants.” – The Local Government Association
What was once a stigmatized and misunderstood narrative about second-hand clothing has gained immense positive traction in the last several years. Josh tells us that the stigma around purchasing second-hand clothing no longer exists. This advocacy brought efforts such as uniform banks into action, helping families find the quality items they need at prices they can afford.
“It just helps places like this to support everyone, keep it a fair price.” – Josh
Hawthorne’s school uniform bank is experiencing record demand this year. She notes that many families are turning to these resources as they navigate the financial challenges posed by rising costs.
For Carrie, charities such as the Green Uniform and Baby Bank, based in Cheshire, are invaluable when it comes to sourcing school uniforms for her son. Here, Amanda Johnson with whatmomslove.com shares some ideas on how parents can combat the rising costs that accompany the back-to-school season.
“You might earn a lot of money however, bills are going up, the cost of living is going up. We’re in a sort of crisis where everyone’s trying to save or penny-pinching wherever they can.” – Carrie
Their collection of pre-loved school uniforms diverts waste from landfill. Additionally, they work to help low-income families. As Jason points out, this type of initiative is a really effective way to prevent waste.
“You’re not having uniforms and clothes going to landfill sites.” – Jason
This current discussion about school uniform costs is a welcome focus on a huge issue facing families across England. As the new academic year approaches, the lack of support is even more apparent and exacerbated.
