Thousands of parents ‘unaware’ of new school uniform change coming into force next month

THOUSANDS of parents could be unaware of a new school uniform change that is coming into force next month. The new rules have been introduced to help address parents struggling with uniform costs during the cost of living crisis. The new regulation could save parents money on school uniform purchases Credit: Getty From September, the majority of schools will only be permitted to require parents to purchase a maximum of three branded uniform items per child. This includes everything from jumpers, blazers, trousers, and skirts. Sign up for the Money newsletter Thank you! The law was introduced back in April, with the government sharing at the time that it could help families save on back to school costs each year. However, a new Money Wellness survey of 1,000 parents with school-age children found that 48% were completely unaware the regulations were coming into place. Meanwhile, around 61% think limiting branded items will save them money and 30% don’t expect to see any saving at all. Tara Evans, personal finance editor at Confused.com said: “This change is good news for parents’ pockets – but with nearly half of parents unaware, according to Money Wellness, many risk paying out unnecessarily for branded items they no longer need. “It’s worth checking your school’s updated policy before you hit the shops.” The initiative, rolled out by the Department of Education, came alongside other measures to help families save up to £1,000 a year on school costs. Most read in Money Up to 1,400 more schools will get free breakfast clubs when pupils return in September. If you are are worried about the cost of back to school, know that there are ways to save. Some local councils also offer grants or financial support for families that qualify. Supermarket ranges also tend to be more affordable and can provide basic shirts, trousers and PE kits in many cases, paired up with spreading purchases over the year or buying slightly bigger items, it can make the purchases easier to manage. Parents can even get up to five free items of clothing per child during the run-up to Back-to-School season at hundreds of Salvation Army locations across the country. Comment now