The UK Government has confirmed that the 2025 School Uniform Grant is now open, offering eligible families up to £200 per child to help cover the cost of essential school clothing.
With inflation and living costs continuing to rise, this grant provides much-needed relief to low-income households preparing their children for the new academic year starting September 2025.
Parents are urged to apply now, as local councils operate with limited budgets and applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
What Is the School Uniform Grant 2025?
The School Uniform Grant is a government-backed scheme run by local councils across the UK, including England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. It helps families afford school uniforms, PE kits, shoes, and specialist clothing.
In 2025, the maximum support has increased to £200 per child in many regions, compared to lower amounts in 2024. This ensures that children from lower-income households can attend school with confidence, reducing both financial strain and social inequality.
| Key Details – 2025 School Uniform Grant | Information |
|---|---|
| Maximum Grant Amount | £200 per child |
| Application Start | Summer 2025 (open now) |
| Deadline | Varies by council |
| Who Provides It | Local councils (UK-wide) |
| Typical Payment Date | Before September 2025 |
Why the Grant Matters in 2025
Recent surveys show UK parents spend an average of £250+ annually per child on school uniforms, a figure that has soared due to rising clothing, energy, and food prices.
The government’s decision to increase the grant ceiling to £200 in 2025 reflects an effort to ease the burden on struggling families, especially those on Universal Credit, Income Support, or Child Tax Credit.
For many parents, this support could be the difference between staying financially stable or going into debt before the new term begins.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Eligibility criteria vary by local authority, but parents are generally considered if they:
- Receive Universal Credit with a low household income
- Are on Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, or ESA
- Claim Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit within income limits
- Have children eligible for free school meals
- Live in a council area that has expanded eligibility in 2025
Note: Not all councils offer the grant, and amounts can differ. Some councils in Wales and Northern Ireland offer higher support than in England. Always check your local council’s website for precise criteria.
How Much You Can Get
While £200 is the maximum grant in 2025, many councils offer between £100 and £150 depending on budget availability and assessed need.
The grant can be used for:
- School blazers, jumpers, shirts, and trousers
- Shoes and PE kits
- Any specialist clothing required by the school
Some councils issue cash payments, while others provide vouchers redeemable at approved retailers to ensure the money is spent on school-related clothing only.
How to Apply
The application process is simple but time-sensitive. Parents must apply through their local council, either online or with a paper form.
Steps:
- Visit your local council’s website and search for “School Uniform Grant.”
- Complete the application form with your household and child details.
- Provide evidence of eligibility (benefit statements, income proof).
- Submit before the deadline.
Most councils aim to process applications within 4–6 weeks, ensuring payments arrive before September 2025.
What’s New in 2025
Several key updates have been introduced to the 2025 scheme:
- Higher support: Maximum grant increased to £200
- More councils involved: New local authorities have joined the scheme
- Fully online applications: Faster and less paperwork
- Stricter deadlines: Shorter windows mean families must apply early
These changes mean families cannot afford to delay their applications.
With cost-of-living pressures still hitting households, the £200 School Uniform Grant 2025 offers critical support to UK parents.
Families are strongly encouraged to apply immediately, as funds are limited and demand is expected to be higher than ever. By acting early, parents can secure the full grant and ensure their children are ready for the new school year without financial stress.
FAQs
How much is the School Uniform Grant in 2025?
Eligible families can claim up to £200 per child, though the amount varies by local council.
Who can apply for the School Uniform Grant?
Parents on Universal Credit, Income Support, JSA, ESA, Tax Credits, or with children on free school meals can usually apply.
When will payments be made?
Payments or vouchers are generally issued before September 2025, but timelines depend on each council.
