Parents cutting costs with second-hand school uniform

Cost-of-living pressures are prompting more parents to look for second-hand school uniforms this year.

According to research by Park Christmas Savings, over half of parents find it hard to cover the cost of school uniforms.

As a result, more than one in three are looking for second-hand items on online marketplaces like Vinted and parent WhatsApp groups.

How much are parents spending on school uniform?

One in three parents expect to spend between £75 and £100 on new school uniform items for their child.

Meanwhile, one in four think they’ll have to pay anything from £100 to £200.

That means many families with two children could be looking at a £400 bill just for school uniform.

“The cost of living has hit UK families hard and the need to save and budget throughout the year for major outgoings is more crucial than ever,” said Katherine Scott of Park Christmas Savings.

Government aims to ease burden on parents

According to official figures, 24% of primary schools and 70% of secondary schools require five or more branded school uniform items.

But from September 2026, new rules will come into place that mean parents won’t have to buy more than three branded school uniform items.

The government believes that this change could help parents save around £50 per child.

“We welcome the government's call for limits on branded uniform items to help families on a budget,” Ms Scott commented.

“Too often branded items are over-priced and poor quality.”

What help with school uniform costs is available?

If you’re struggling to afford new school uniform items this year, there are several ways to cut costs.

Speak to your local council

Money Wellness research has found that just 22 out of 153 local education authorities in England are offering dedicated school uniform support this year.

But if your child gets free school meals and you receive certain benefits, you may be eligible for a uniform grant of up to £200. 

Qualifying benefits include: 

• child tax credit
• income support
• universal credit
• working tax credit
• pension credit (guaranteed element)
• income-based job seeker’s allowance
• income-related employment and support allowance
• support under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 

To check eligibility, visit your local council’s website or give them a call. 

Check local uniform exchanges 

Many schools and community groups offer free or low-cost second-hand uniforms. 

Check your school’s website or ask your PTA. 

Local Facebook groups can also be a good resource. 

Speak to friends or family with older kids

Check in with friends or relatives who have older children at the same school.

They might have some items of clothing they don’t need any more that are still as good as new - and they’ll probably be happy to give them to you free of charge.

Size up where you can

Sizing up means your child has room to grow into their clothes.

That can help uniforms last a bit longer and stop you having to buy more uniform items later in the term.

Budget for back-to-school costs

New uniform items are just one expense when the new school year begins.

Many kids will need (or demand) a laptop or tablet, as well as basics like stationery and textbooks.

So it’s worth setting a budget for back-to-school purchases, so you know beforehand how much you can afford to spend.

Knowing your upper limit can also help you stay on top of other financial priorities, like paying your rent or mortgage.

Check our guide on how to create a budget to get started.