School uniform grants are provided by all councils in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and some in England
The summer holidays haven’t even started yet, but if you’re already worried about the cost of sending the kids back to school, then we explain what help is available.
You could get up to £200 toward school uniform costs if you’re on a low income, claiming benefits or receiving free school meals.
School uniform grants are provided by all councils in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and some in England.
It isn’t a statutory requirement in England, which means councils don’t have to offer the support. The exact eligibility criteria also varies between councils.
The average cost of a primary school uniform and PE kit in 2025 was £343.28, and £442.25 for secondary school, according to the Schoolwear Association.
School uniform grants explained
England: Only 22 councils in England provided school uniform grants last year, according to MoneySavingExpert.com. Wandsworth Borough Council awarded £160 in help for secondary school kids, while Sandwell Council offered £25 per secondary school child.
Scotland: All councils in Scotland offer school uniform grants worth at least £120 if your child is in primary school, and £150 if they are in secondary school.
Some councils pay more than this – for example, Shetland Islands Council offers grants of £150 if your child is in early years, £180 for primary school children and £225 if your child is in secondary school.
Most councils will accept applications from July until the end of March. Visit MyGov.scot for more information.
Wales: All councils in Wales offer school uniform grants worth £125, or £200 if your child is going into secondary school.
The 2026/27 scheme opens on July 1, 2026 and closes on May 31, 2027. Find more information on Gov.Wales.
Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland families can get up to £93.60 to put toward school uniform costs if the child is in secondary school and is 15 years or older.
If they’re in secondary school but under the age of 15, the rate is £87.60. The grant is worth £42.90 for primary school pupils. The deadline to apply for the new school year is July 31, 2026, through the Education Authority website.
Other ways to get help with school uniform
Some charities also offer grants to help cover the costs of school uniform – although again, you’ll normally need to be on a low income or claim benefits.
Turn2Us has a free grants search tool so you can find out what help is available to you. It is also worth keeping an eye on local buy and sell Facebook groups for other parents selling school uniform.
