East Suffolk Council
Helping families access affordable school uniform
Community groups, organisations and town and parish councils are invited to apply for funding to help provide school uniform to East Suffolk families in need.
Following a successful round of funding earlier this year, the East Suffolk Uniform Bank grant scheme is now open for a second round of applications. The scheme provides funding for community groups to open a new uniform bank or expand an existing uniform bank.
Once operational, donations of new or pre-loved good-quality uniform, sportswear and school equipment can be made to the banks, which will then be made available to families who may be struggling to afford uniform.
Uniform banks which have been funded through the previous round of this grant scheme are now operational at Bloodmoor Community Centre in Carlton Colville, Project40Seven at Creative Leiston and St Luke’s Church in Beccles.
Cllr Sarah Whitelock, East Suffolk’s cabinet member for Communities, Leisure and Tourism said: “On average, school uniform costs families over £300 per year, and this can be higher if a school requires the use of a particular supplier, or the uniform contains branded items. Providing uniform, sports kit and other school equipment can be a struggle for many families, particularly those in rural areas. Uniform banks can help ease this pressure by providing good quality uniform to those in need and also helps to reduce clothing waste.”
Grants are available for up to £3,000 and applications are welcome from community and voluntary groups, organisations and town and parish councils.
Applications for this funding round are now closed.
East Suffolk Council understands the pressures faced by many people today and is working closely with partners and stakeholders to ensure support is available to help ease the squeeze for households in East Suffolk.