All Scottish councils will offer £100 school uniform grants

It has confirmed that all 32 Scottish councils increased their school clothing grants to at least £100 for the start of the 2018/19 academic year. The grant is given as cash or vouchers.  

An estimated 120,000 families are eligible for the grant, which was agreed in May, with eligibility criteria varying between councils. Those on benefits such as income support or universal credit are typically included.

You can apply for the grant by going direct to your council's website – the Scottish Government has a full list.

Previously, some councils offered grants of less than £50.

See to save money on your costs.

What help is out there for uniform costs in the rest of the UK? 

Some councils in England offer help with school uniform purchases – you can find your local authority on Gov.uk. If yours doesn't, you'll have to ask your child's school directly.

In Northern Ireland, you can usually get a school uniform grant if you receive one of several benefits, or in other situations, such as if your child has special educational needs.

You can get the following, each year:

• £35.75 for a primary school pupil

• £51 for a post-primary/special-school pupil under 15 years old

• £56 for a post-primary/special-school pupil over 15 years old

• £22 for a post-primary/special-school pupil PE kit

You can apply for a grant with the Education Authority.

In Wales, you can get £125 to buy school uniform, equipment, sports kit and kit for activities outside of school for your child, if they're eligible for free school meals.

Applications are submitted via your local authority, and there's more information on the Welsh Government website.

What does the Scottish Government say?

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: "We know school uniforms can be a considerable cost for families and I am delighted to see that our partnership-working with local authorities has resulted in all councils across Scotland paying the national minimum school clothing grant.

"This will help to relieve pressure for around 120,000 families, reduce costs of living and allow all children to attend school feeling comfortable, confident and ready to learn."