Bournemouth parents could receive assistance from the Council with the cost of purchasing new school uniforms.

Now that the summer holidays have started, Bournemouth's Conservative Councillors are calling for the Council to publicise the existence of the 'Necessitous Clothing Grant Fund'.

At tonight's Council meeting, Conservative Group Leader, Councillor Stephen MacLoughlin (Central Ward) will be asking that all secondary schools make parents/guardians of Year 7 children starting in September aware of the Fund.

"Buying new school uniforms can be a very expensive business," says Stephen. "It comes at a time of year which is already expensive, with the cost for parents of additional child care or entertainment during the school holidays. We want to make sure that they are aware that assistance may be available from the Council for them".

Stephen will be supported by Cllr Lynda Price (Talbot and Branksome Woods) at tonight's meeting. "The information concerning financial support for school uniforms is contained in the School Admissions Booklets. These booklets are sent out to the parents/guardians of children starting Year 6, almost a year ahead of when they need to buy uniforms and sports clothing for secondary school. Now is the right time to remind anyone who may be eligible for a grant before they buy uniforms for Year 7 (start of secondary school)," says Lynda. "We want to raise awareness of the scheme so that families can budget accordingly".

More information about the Necessitous Clothing Grant Fund can be obtained from Andy Hallowell at Bournemouth Council, tel 01202 456344.

For further infomation contact:

Cllr Nick King, Group Press & Publicity Officer
Tel: 01202 552553 (work)
Mob: 07766 141886
Email: nick.king@bournemouth.gov.uk