Parents in Argyll and Bute have been reminded that they could be eligible for financial help with school clothing. 

National advice agency Advice Direct Scotland is urging households to check their eligibility for support before schools return from the summer holidays next month.

The local authority are providing clothing grants of £120 per primary school-aged child and £150 per secondary school-aged child to families receiving qualifying benefits.

Most councils accept applications from July until the end of March the following year, with payments made in July or August before the new school year starts.

To qualify for a clothing grant, parents must be in receipt of at least one of the following:

  • Income Support

  • Income Based Job Seekers Allowance

  • Income related Employment and Support Allowance

  • Council Tax or Housing Benefit

  • Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit

  • Universal Credit

Clothing grant applications for Argyll and Bute children due to start school in August 2024 opened on July 1.

READ MORE: Applications for school clothing grants in Argyll and Bute to open

Grants are paid directly into recipients’ bank accounts, but those without an account can discuss other payment options.

Advice Direct Scotland is urging those who may have started claiming benefits over the holidays due to a change in circumstances to take action.

Additionally, families with a child starting school for the first time or who have recently moved to a different council area are encouraged to check their eligibility.

Families are also reminded to check whether they qualify for the Scottish Government’s Best Start Grant School Age Payment, worth £314.45.

This can help with the costs of preparing for school when a child is first old enough to start P1.

Conor Forbes, policy director at Advice Direct Scotland, said: “Many parents worry about the costs of sending their children back to school after the holidays.

“We know that Scots families are finding things extremely difficult due to the cost-of-living crisis, especially as kitting out children is becoming increasingly expensive.

“The good news is that help is available, so we urge anyone who might benefit from a clothing grant to make sure they know how to apply and when the relevant deadlines are.

“Eligibility and the amount you will receive varies depending on which local authority area you live in, and this is something we can help you understand.

“Anyone worried or confused can reach out to our team at advice.scot for free advice at any time.”

For more information, and to apply for the grant, visit Argyll and Bute Council at argyllandbute.custhelp.com.