North Tyneside Council to tackle the cost of school uniforms amidst financial pressures

North Tyneside Council are combating the often debilitating costs of purchasing new school uniforms for families.

The project will see 20 schools across the borough set up their own pre-loved uniform and school appropriate clothing swap shops to help tackle the rising cost of living.

Covering uniform, coats, shoe, PE kits and more, the council hopes to alleviate some of the financial pressure.

Jacqueline Laughton, assistant chief executive at North Tyneside Council, said: “Our participation team are playing a key role in supporting schools to establish their own support and the summit was a great way for schools to hear from others who may be further on with their support to see what is proving successful.

“We know that the cost of school uniform can be a concern for some and these schemes are extremely beneficial to many. It’s great to see our local schools being proactive, and there’s the added benefit of reducing clothing waste too.”

Last week, representatives from schools across the area came together to support the first ever school uniform and clothing summit.

Many schools already have uniform and clothing support in place so the event allowed them to share their work and seek advice.

A guest speaker, Sarah Corrigan, Chair of the Friends Of Benton Dene (FOBS PTA), from Benton Dene Primary spoke about the school’s ‘Little Green Shed’ project. Ran by a group of volunteers from a dedicated container bought for the project, its sees school uniform donated, sorted into age, year group, zone and then collected by those who need the support.

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