The Government has confirmed new rules around school uniforms, impacting millions of families. The change will come as a boost for parents and is designed to ease cost-of-living pressures. Schools have been told they must not force parents to buy more than three items of branded school uniform.
Secondary and middle schools may ask for four items if a tie is one of them. It follows complaints over surging school uniform costs over recent years, with headteachers increasingly demanding branded items of clothing rather than cheaper alternatives.
Second-hand uniforms and awareness
Schools have also been instructed to ensure second-hand uniforms are available and that information on how to buy them is published on websites. Research suggests many parents are not aware of these changes coming in just a few weeks' time at the start of the new term.
Sebrina McCullough, from Money Wellness, said: "Buying school uniform is one of those unavoidable costs that arrives all at once, often when family budgets are already under pressure after the summer holidays."
Advice for parents
The new rules are a positive step, but our research suggests many parents don't yet know they're coming. Raising awareness will be just as important as changing the rules if families are to benefit. She added: "If the cost of school uniform is stretching your budget, speak to your child’s school before turning to credit. Many schools offer second-hand uniform sales, hardship support or can suggest lower-cost alternatives."
