Families across North Tyneside will receive extra support this year to help cover the cost of school uniforms and winter coats, with schools set to distribute £130,000 in direct payments.
There is no application process. Instead, schools will identify and nominate the families they know would benefit most – based on their knowledge of local need.
This follows the same successful process used last year for winter coat support and will now be extended to include school uniforms.
The funding comes from the Government’s Household Support Fund, which has been extended until March 2026. North Tyneside has been awarded £2.8 million to support residents with essential costs, and the Council is using this funding locally to help those who need it most.
North Tyneside’s Elected Mayor, Karen Clark, said: “We know that many families continue to feel the pressure of rising costs. By working closely with schools in the Borough, we can ensure that this funding reaches the children and families who need it most. We are confident the new process this year will be quicker, easier to navigate and will give people the dignity of choice.”
The initiative forms part of a wider package of support funded through the Government’s Household Support Fund, which seeks to support those who are experiencing significant hardship, unable to meet the immediate short-term needs of their household.
The Council continues to work on the priorities for the Household Support Fund to make sure it’s utilised effectively to provide the right support to the right people.
More information about other forms of support available through the fund will be shared on the Council’s website as and when they are confirmed.
ENDS