Back to school support available for families across County Durham
As families across County Durham prepare for the new school year, we're encouraging parents and carers to check what support is available to help with the cost of uniforms, school meals, transport and other school essentials.
Back-to-school costs can quickly add up, from uniforms and PE kits to stationery, lunches and travel. Many schools offer pre-loved uniform schemes, and additional support may be available through Family Hubs, community organisations and local initiatives. Families receiving certain benefits, including Universal Credit, may also qualify for free school meals and other support. Our Money Support Team is also on hand to provide advice and help families understand what support they may be entitled to.
For tenant Mason Storm, whose daughter Khaleesi is starting school for the first time, preparing for the new term highlighted just how quickly costs can mount up. Support from our Money Support Team helped ease the pressure and made sure the family were receiving the help available to them.
Mason Storm, our tenant said: "With school costs adding up, the support I received came at exactly the right time. It helped ease the financial pressure and made getting ready for the new term much more manageable."
Gillian Chapman, Money Support Adviser said: "We understand that the start of a new school year can be worrying for families, especially when household budgets are already stretched. No one should feel they have to face those pressures alone. We're here to listen, offer practical support and make sure people are getting all the help they're entitled to. Sometimes a simple conversation can make a real difference and ease some of the stress that comes with back-to-school costs."
If you're worried about back-to-school costs, contact our Money Support Team here.
Pictured: Khaleesi, Mason Storm, Gillian Chapman (Money Support Adviser) and Tiana.