Posted: 28.11.2005
Immediate Release

Parents in are losing out because school clothing grants have not been uprated sufficiently in recent years. Each local authority has the power to set the grant, which can be claimed by families on benefits or low earnings, usually up to about £15,000 per year.

A recent survey conducted by One Parent Families Scotland shows that the amount of school clothing grants available to parents is not reflective of the rising cost of school uniforms.

Of the thirty-two local authorities in Scotland, nine have increased the school clothing grant since 2000, fifteen pay the same amount and two have reduced the grant. Most clothing grants are between £45 and £55, and that average hasn't increased in the last five years.

Twenty-three local authorities provide the same grant for high school and primary school children and the remaining nine pay a higher grant for high school children.

"Money worries are one of the commonest topics raised on our national Lone Parent Helpline on 0808 801 0323." commented Susan Rew, the Information and Training Officer for One Parent Families Scotland.

"Our 2005 survey demonstrates that the school clothing grants in Scotland barely reflect the true price of a school uniform from any high street store."

"In addition three out of the thirty-two local authorities still pay the parents by vouchers thus limiting parental choice."

One Parent Families Scotland will be contacting local councils requesting a review of school clothing grant payments as they set next year's budget.

The Lone Parent helpline can be called free on 0808 801 0323 for advice and information on a wide range of topics.

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Interviews:

If you want to speak to a lone parent about this issue, OPFS will try to put you in touch with one of our members in your area. Contact Ian Maxwell on 0131 557 7892 or 07887 500 667 or ianmaxwell@opfs.org.uk

Background:

One Parent Families Scotland is the national organisation representing the interests of the 150,000 lone parents in Scotland. OPFS provides a range of services including the lone parent helpline and a range of free factsheets.