PARENTS and carers across West Dunbartonshire are being warned that they must apply now for the school clothing grant in order to receive it in time for the new term.

West Dunbartonshire Council (WDC) has maintained its clothing allowance of £150 per child for secondary pupils and as part of its cost of living initiatives has increased the payment for primary pupils from £120 to £150.

This makes the local authority one of the highest-paying councils in Scotland.

Those who were automatically eligible for the grant last year are being advised that they may still be required to provide proof of earnings and all eligible grants have already been paid.

It is noted that parents and carers whose circumstances have changed since last year and any new applicants must complete a new application.

Who is eligible to claim school clothing grants and free school meals?

Those in receipt of;

  • Income support
  • Universal Credit with an annual earned income of £9,712 (£809.33 per month)
  • Jobseekers Allowance (income based)
  • Pension Credit
  • Employment and Support Allowance (income related)
  • Working Tax Credit with income less than £11,637
  • Support under Part VI of the Immigration & Asylum Act 1999
  • The subject of a kinship order or a child falling within section 71(3)(f) of the Act (referred to here as a child having a parent appointed guardian)

Who is eligible to claim school clothing grants only?

Those in receipt of;

  • Housing Benefit and/or Council Tax Reduction
  • Working Tax Credit with a gross annual income of £16,860

Who is eligible for free nursery/free school meals only?

Those in receipt of;

  • Child Tax Credit only (but not Working Tax Credit) with income less than £21,020
  • Or young children who are looked after by the authority concerned or any local authority

WDC states that many schools across the region operate a dress code that includes all pupils wearing a designated uniform to help create a “strong school identity and ethos amongst pupils”.

It goes on to add that the school clothing grant should help all parents and carers to follow the dress code and guidelines at their children’s school.

Councillor Clare Steel, convener of educational services, said: “I am delighted we have been able to increase the grant to primary pupils and offer much-needed financial assistance to many more families in West Dunbartonshire.

“Our priority is to help as many families as possible and I’m confident this increase will be welcomed across our area. 

“I would encourage residents who are entitled to claim to apply now to ensure they have their money well in advance of the new school term.  

“I understand the financial strain faced by parents and how expensive it is to kit the kids out for going back to school. 

“In the current financial climate, this money will be a welcome boost for families and I hope everyone who is entitled to receive this money contacts the council and submits their claim.”

Councillor John Millar, vice convener of educational services, added: “The process is very straightforward and is great financial support for parents as the cost of school uniforms can be expensive.

“So our aim is to ensure everyone who is entitled to receive help, gets it.  I would also ask residents to respond quickly if we ask for further information, as this helps to speed up the process and get the money out to parents and carers so they can get everything bought in for the new term.”

For further information or to apply visit WDC’s website HERE.