New school uniform rules: What do they mean for you?

New rules to make school uniforms cheaper for families are coming into place this term.

Most schools in England can now only require up to three branded uniform items per child. Secondary and middle schools may require four if one of those items is a tie.

The government hopes the change will give parents more freedom to shop around and buy cheaper alternatives from places like supermarkets, rather than be tied to expensive branded suppliers.

But there’s one problem that could cost parents money.

Did you know about the new school uniform rules?

We recently surveyed 1,000 parents with school-age children and almost half (48%) said they didn’t know about the changes.

And less than one in four (24%) told us they were fully aware of the new rules.

So that suggests a huge number of parents could end up paying more for new uniform items than they need to.

And that’s a real worry at a time when many mums and dads are already struggling to keep up with back-to-school costs.

How much are parents spending on school uniform?

One in five parents (20%) spend more than £150 per child on school uniform each year, and more than three-quarters (76%) spend between £51 and £200 per child.

In many cases, these parents won’t have the money available in their bank account just waiting to be spent.

And that pushes them towards borrowing.

In fact, nearly one in 10 parents (9%) told us they use a credit card or buy now, pay later to cover the cost of new uniform, while a further 4% rely on help from family or friends.

So it’s really important that people know about these rules before heading to the shops.

Do the new school uniform rules go far enough?

While the changes are undoubtedly good news for hard-pressed parents, there will obviously be debate about whether they could go even further.

More than six in ten parents (61%) think putting a limit on the number of branded items they have to buy will save them money.

But almost a third (30%) don’t think they’ll save anything at all.

And some are also wondering why schools can’t simply dispense with branded uniform items completely.

Only about one in five (21%) parents think they’re necessary, while nearly two in five (38%) think they aren't needed at all.

For many parents, the new uniform rules will be seen as a step in the right direction, but it’s clear that many don’t think they go far enough in easing the financial pressure.

What can you do if you're struggling with uniform costs?

If the cost of school uniform is stretching your budget, try speaking to your child's school before reaching for a credit card or buy now, pay later.

Many schools offer:

• second-hand uniform sales
• hardship support
• advice on lower-cost alternatives

Check if you're eligible for a school uniform grant

Many local councils offer grants towards school uniform costs for families on a low income. 

Eligibility varies depending on where you live, but you may qualify if you receive benefits such as universal credit.

Visit your local council's website or contact them directly to find out what support is available.

Many national and local charities also offer free or low-cost help with school uniforms across the UK, including:

• The Salvation Army
• Family Fund
• Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust