Parents in England can get up to £160 toward the cost of school uniforms if they are on a low income, claiming Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits, or receiving free school meals. School uniform grants are provided by all councils in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, but only 22 councils in England offered them last year, according to MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE).
Eligibility Criteria for School Uniform Grants
MSE, the site founded by Martin Lewis, stated: "Generally, the minimum UK-wide requirement to get a school uniform grant is to qualify for means-tested free school meals – even if you don't actually get them." To qualify for means-tested free school meals, you typically need to be receiving a specified benefit such as Child Tax Credit, Universal Credit, or others. The exact criteria vary slightly across the UK.
Local authorities can set their own eligibility criteria, and some councils include additional requirements, such as the child being in a specific year group or moving from primary to secondary school. MSE advises: "If you're not currently getting any benefits, use our 10-minute benefits check to ensure you're not missing out on vital support."
Examples of Grant Amounts
Wandsworth Borough Council awarded £160 in help for secondary school children, MSE found. In Birmingham, the city council states: "No family should feel like they can't apply to a school because of the cost of the uniform. Schools should offer you advice on this." Parents are advised to contact their child's school for details of the uniform policy and any sports kits.
How to Apply
Parents should check with their local council or school to see if a grant is available. Generally, school uniforms should be available in high street shops and other retail outlets, rather than from just one supplier. School governing bodies are responsible for deciding whether pupils should wear a uniform.
