An initiative to support parents with the costs of returning to school has been restarted. The School Uniform Project is an initiative that will help to tackle the costs of paying for new school uniforms and stationery.
Across our community, individuals will be encouraged to make donations of school uniforms and stationery for families in need. This could be uniforms that young people may have outgrown or don’t wear anymore or alternatively, some people are buying an extra shirt or jumper and donating that.
As a result of COVID-19, the way that the project works has been slightly changed from previous years. Donations will still be received in the same way – there are a variety of drop off points across the region where these items can be taken to. Families who would like some uniforms only have to complete an easy online form and then school uniforms will be delivered to their home address for free.
As a result of the recent pandemic, a number of families may be struggling financially. The school uniform project supports individuals by helping to removing the pressure of buying items as well as removing the stigma of free uniforms being given out within schools.
Speaking about the project, Chair of the Communities Committee, Andy Ferguson, said “This administration is absolutely determined to make a difference, a proper difference, to those who are living in poverty. This can be a worrying time of the year for parents who are facing the costs of the new school term. Having to pay for new uniforms, school bags, stationery and other costs can really add up. That’s why I’m so pleased that we are relaunching the School Uniform Project. It will make a real difference to those parents who are concerned about finding the money to pay for these items. This project is about supporting parents who need our help, not judging them.”
Chair of Children, Education and Learning committee, Jeff Leaver, added “our Council has a duty to become involved at grass roots level, to step up to the mark, engage, and take responsibility to help those most in need. We made a commitment to identify the best interventions that will make a difference to those who face poverty in our region. This project will help make a difference to those who need our support. I know myself how quickly kids grow up, sometimes outgrowing their school clothes throughout the year. That is why making sure that this project runs throughout the year is so important because this project is not just about supporting parents at the start of term. It’s about providing support throughout the year to those who need it, not just as a result of the pandemic.”
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