As the new school year approaches, households across the UK will be starting to prepare for the next school year.
And with that, comes the school uniform shop.
For many who are struggling with soaring food, fuel and energy bills, this is an extra expense that they simply can’t afford.
Parents estimate that they buy an average of 16 new items at the start of the school year.
The Children’s Society estimates families pay an average of more than £300 per child, per year in school uniform costs.
The same report estimates that 780,000 children have to wear uniforms that do not fit because their parents cannot afford to keep buying new items.
Here are six ways to save on the school uniform shop this year.
1. Free grants
A school uniform grant worth up to £150 in England is being offered to parents struggling with the rising cost of bills across the UK.
However, the grant is not compulsory in England which means that not all local authorities will offer the support.
Not only does this mean parents face a postcode lottery for funding, each council has its own criteria for who is eligible for the grant.
Generally speaking, those who claim free school meals, are on low incomes or claim benefits are likely to be entitled to help.
The size of the grant and how to apply will also vary between councils.
While applications are generally open from June or July until the end of September, the deadlines vary between councils and so it is important to check this if you intend to make a claim.
The school uniform grant system is different in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, where councils have to offer the help.
In Wales, you can get up to £200 toward the cost of school uniform per child for Year 7 pupils, or £125 for reception, Year 3 and Year 10 pupils.
Scottish families are entitled to at least £120 per primary school children, and £150 for secondary school kids, although councils can choose to offer more.
If you live in Northern Ireland, you can claim up to £78.
Separately, charity Turn2Us can also help you find out what help is available to you with its free grants search tool found here.
2. Supermarket deals
Supermarkets are a great place to shop for new school uniforms - with Poundland and Primark also offering back to school basics this year.
You can purchase a full set - polo shirt, sweatshirt, skirt or trousers - from as little as £5 at Aldi and Lidl.
Asda, Tesco and Sainsbury's offer sets year-round from under £10, and you can also buy purchase a set from some high street retailers including M&S and John Lewis for under £22.
While prices vary depending on size at many stores, Aldi and Lidl offer the same price for all sizes.
3. Outlet shops
MoneySavingExpert Martin Lewis recommends parents check out their nearest outlet stores.
Outlets stores can offer the same items but at a lower price - often because they're out of season.
For example, Clarks Outlet stores often have shoes at 50% off.
M&S also has hundreds of outlet stores, which have 30% or more off the main M&S store price.
4. Facebook
The social media site is a great platform for finding used school items.
It may be worth searching for a local group, such as Second Hand, Nearly New School Uniform For Sale or Free, or by keeping an eye on the Marketplace.
There may be a dedicated group or page for your school.
You can also try looking at what is available near you on Facebook Marketplace.
5. OLIO and Freecycle
Olio connects local neighbours with each other so that they can give away things they don't need.
Freecycle works in a similar way to Olio - you can search for uniform being given away for free, or you can add a "wanted" post.
According to data from Olio, parents are throwing away an average of 13 old items a year.
6. Parent Teacher Association
Many Parent Teacher Associations will hold second-hand clothing sales.
It is worth finding out if there’s a sale coming up in the autumn term.
If there isn’t one on offer at your child’s school, it may be worth suggesting the idea or - if you can - volunteer to help set one up.
A "swap shop" event with other parents may be similarly effective.
