Hundreds more families across the Royal Borough of Greenwich will benefit from extra financial help, after Cabinet agreed to expand its School Uniform Grant last night (Wednesday 15 July).
For the first time, eligible families with children in academy schools will be able to apply for the grant, helping more households access financial support for the cost of school uniforms.
The decision, subject to call in, follows a public consultation earlier this year, which received more than 700 responses. The majority supported extending the grant to more children, regardless of what school they go to.
Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich said: “Every parent wants their child to walk into school feeling confident, comfortable and ready to learn, but we know the cost of school uniforms can put real pressure on family budgets.
“By extending our School Uniform Grant to academy schools, we’re making sure more families can get the help they need. Parents told us this change would make a big difference during consultation, and we listened.”
Eligible families will be given grants of £50 for children starting Reception and Year 3, £150 for children starting Year 7 and £100 for those entering Year 9.
As part of the changes, we will also be offering support with food costs for children who receive Education Otherwise Than at School (EOTAS).
EOTAS is for children with Education, Health and Care Plans, whose additional needs mean they cannot attend school. Instead, we arrange for them to be educated at home, or in another suitable setting. The new support does not apply to families who choose to educate their children at home.
Councillor Rachel Taggart-Ryan, Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources said: “Every child deserves the support they need to reach their full potential. Families caring for children with complex needs already have so much to think about, including additional costs and challenges.
"This new support will help with everyday food costs, making sure that children that get EOTAS don’t miss out on the same help available to children in school.”
We are able to fund the expansion using money from the Crisis and Resilience Fund.
Applications for the expanded School Uniform Grant and the EOTAS support will open ahead of the 2026/27 school year.
Families who they may be eligible are encouraged to check our website for eligibility criteria and information on how to apply.