St Giles & St George recognise that the cost of school uniform is a challenge for many families and increasingly so during this cost-of-living crisis.

The government are trying to address the problem – they have asked schools to reduce the amount or cost of branded clothing that is compulsory part of school uniform.  Sadly, this has not yet happened.  Our research shows the cost of new uniform for a child going into Year 7 is approximately £250 for minimum branded items plus basic coat & shoes.

Some councils are trying to help.  Westminster offers £150 for families of children in Year 6 eligible for free-school meals but this only launched in September, so it was too late for children changing schools this summer.

We awarded a total of £8,845 to 18 families through our pilot Family Welfare grant programme, and over half of this was for school uniform.  Altogether, 13 families benefitted from £4,495 for school uniform grants.  We offer up to £250 for new joiners (Year 7) secondary school grants or between £150-200 for older children who need more uniform.  Primary school uniform support is at a flat rate of £65.  We funded:

• £2,750 for 11 new secondary school grants
• £900 for 5 top-up secondary school grants
• £845 for 13 primary school grants
• An extra £1,925 for additional furniture (kids beds/oven/laptop/table and chairs) for these families.

We know this is a drop in the ocean when considering all the families in the area but it has had real benefit for those who receive the grant.  The photo above is of a proud pupil in his new uniform for Twyford CofE school.

Hear from some recipients of the scheme about what it means for them:

“I do appreciate your gesture and support for my girls; they’re super happy.”

“I don’t know how to say thanks to St Giles & St George for the great help.  My son is also very thankful.”

“Thank you for helping me to buy my children’s school uniforms.  I am really grateful to you and your charity.”

“Thank you so much, we are very happy for the help and kind offer to have it fitted and so forth [washing machine].  We feel very lucky, thank you and the team so very much.”