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26/08/2021
Education Minister Urged To Act On Cost Of School Uniforms
The Education Minister has been urged to take action as the cost of school uniforms are pushing many household budgets to "breaking point".
Speaking after 'ParentKinds' published findings of a survey on uniform costs, Sinn Féin West Tyrone MLA Nicola Brogan said: "This important report is further evidence that the costs of school uniforms are simply too high and place a huge burden on parents and families sending their children to school.
"A staggering 94% of families expressed their concerns at the cost of uniforms with the findings also revealing that families are spending almost £380 on a post-primary uniform, PE kit and shoes.
"This is excessive at any time, but even more so in the context of a global pandemic which has cut people's incomes. These costs are putting huge pressure on struggling families.
"It's time for the Education Minister to intervene. Uniform policy should be regulated by the Department to ensure fairness for parents and families.
"The uniform grant provides some support to eligible low-income families, but it is clear from these findings, that this support doesn't go far enough.
"We need a clear plan from the Education Minister to drive down costs and lift this massive burden off the backs of parents and families."
Speaking after 'ParentKinds' published findings of a survey on uniform costs, Sinn Féin West Tyrone MLA Nicola Brogan said: "This important report is further evidence that the costs of school uniforms are simply too high and place a huge burden on parents and families sending their children to school.
"A staggering 94% of families expressed their concerns at the cost of uniforms with the findings also revealing that families are spending almost £380 on a post-primary uniform, PE kit and shoes.
"This is excessive at any time, but even more so in the context of a global pandemic which has cut people's incomes. These costs are putting huge pressure on struggling families.
"It's time for the Education Minister to intervene. Uniform policy should be regulated by the Department to ensure fairness for parents and families.
"The uniform grant provides some support to eligible low-income families, but it is clear from these findings, that this support doesn't go far enough.
"We need a clear plan from the Education Minister to drive down costs and lift this massive burden off the backs of parents and families."
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Support To Help Low Income Families Pay For School Uniforms Cut
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School Uniform Grant Increased
Education Minister Michelle McIlveen has announced that the school uniform grant will be increased by 20% to help support low income families. The grant is designed to assist families in need with a contribution towards the cost of purchasing school uniforms. Announcing the additional £1.
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Education Minister Michelle McIlveen has announced that the school uniform grant will be increased by 20% to help support low income families. The grant is designed to assist families in need with a contribution towards the cost of purchasing school uniforms. Announcing the additional £1.
29 June 2021
School Meals And Uniforms Support Scheme Open For Applications
Online applications for extra support with school meals and uniforms are now open, Education Minister Michelle McIlveen has announced. Encouraging families entitled to the support to apply, the Minister said: "The Education Authority (EA) has sought to improve services for families by making it easier for them to apply for this important service.
School Meals And Uniforms Support Scheme Open For Applications
Online applications for extra support with school meals and uniforms are now open, Education Minister Michelle McIlveen has announced. Encouraging families entitled to the support to apply, the Minister said: "The Education Authority (EA) has sought to improve services for families by making it easier for them to apply for this important service.
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