Wood Street Mission have opened their £1 million fund to help Salford families with the spiralling cost of school uniforms.
The children’s charity launched the SmartStart fund on Thursday 2 July in a bid to help children in poverty get a better start in life, and are now looking for those working with Salford families to apply for funding now.
A third of the million-pound fund has been earmarked specifically for Salford children.
A spokesperson for Wood Street said: “We are aware of high levels of child poverty in Salford – earmarking a third of the budget is intended to help meet this need.
“As the project develops we will review the allocation earmarked for Salford families; it could change but will always be fair and transparent.
“Once the family is referred we will help all children within the family who need school uniform. Sometimes all will need help. At other times families will just need help with one item such as a blazer.”
Parents can’t refer themselves, say Wood Street, but anyone who knows the family’s circumstances – such as Citizen’s Advice Bureau workers, schools
or social workers can apply on their behalf until the Monday 20 July deadline.
It means all the eligible families will get support in time for the back-to-school period in September.
Only one form needs to be filled out for each family, so all children are covered once an application is made.
Non-branded jumpers, blazers, trousers, skirts, and tops are being supplied by North West supplier Trutex.
For more information or to apply contact Wood Street Mission on 0161 834 3140.
