Parents struggling with the cost of school uniforms may be eligible for grants of up to £200, depending on their location and income. While the summer holidays have not yet begun, financial support is available now for the 2026/27 school year.
Who Qualifies for a School Uniform Grant?
School uniform grants are offered to families on low incomes, those claiming benefits, or those receiving free school meals. All councils in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland provide these grants, but in England it is not a statutory requirement, so only some councils offer support. Eligibility criteria vary by council.
According to the Schoolwear Association, the average cost of a primary school uniform and PE kit in 2025 was £343.28, while secondary school costs averaged £442.25.
School Uniform Grants in England
Only 22 councils in England provided school uniform grants last year, according to MoneySavingExpert.com. For example, Wandsworth Borough Council awarded £160 for secondary school children, while Sandwell Council offered £25 per secondary school child.
School Uniform Grants in Scotland
All councils in Scotland offer grants of at least £120 for primary school children and £150 for secondary school children. Some councils pay more; for instance, Shetland Islands Council provides £150 for early years, £180 for primary, and £225 for secondary school pupils. Most councils accept applications from July until the end of March. Visit MyGov.scot for more information.
School Uniform Grants in Wales
All Welsh councils offer grants of £125, or £200 if the child is entering secondary school. The 2026/27 scheme opens on July 1, 2026, and closes on May 31, 2027. Find more details on Gov.Wales.
School Uniform Grants in Northern Ireland
Families in Northern Ireland can receive up to £93.60 for secondary school pupils aged 15 or older, £87.60 for secondary pupils under 15, and £42.90 for primary school pupils. The deadline to apply for the new school year is July 31, 2026, through the Education Authority website.
Additional Help and Charitable Grants
Charities also offer grants for school uniforms, typically for low-income families or benefit claimants. Turn2Us provides a free grants search tool to find available assistance. Local buy-and-sell Facebook groups are another resource for purchasing second-hand uniforms.
